Marchelle Freeman, a 60-year-old woman from Columbus, Ohio, was fatally shot on March 21, 2024, during a domestic dispute at her home located on the 1700 block of East Sycamore Street. The incident occurred late at night, with police responding to a call around 11:30 PM. Upon arrival, officers found Freeman suffering from a gunshot wound; she was pronounced dead at the scene shortly thereafter.
The suspect in this tragic case is Stewart Butler, Freeman's boyfriend, who is 64 years old. Following the shooting, Butler initially claimed to law enforcement that he acted in self-defense. However, as the investigation unfolded, he admitted to detectives that he had shot Freeman after becoming angry during an argument. According to court records, the couple had been engaged in a heated exchange when Freeman allegedly kicked and poked Butler, prompting him to retrieve a firearm and fire a single shot at her. He stated that he did not realize she had been hit until she collapsed.
Stewart Butler has been charged with murder and is currently being held in the Franklin County jail. His first court appearance was scheduled shortly after his arrest. The case has drawn attention due to its tragic nature and the ongoing issues surrounding domestic violence.
