On November 19, 2023, 42-year-old Kandi RoyAnn Henderson was fatally shot in the parking lot of a shopping center in northeast Columbus, Ohio. The incident occurred near the Dollar Tree store where she was employed. Emergency responders transported her to Mount Carmel East Hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 6:46 p.m.
Authorities identified 60-year-old Stephan Turner as the suspect in the shooting.
Turner, who had previously been in a romantic relationship with Henderson, was located at his residence in Gahanna, Ohio. Following a brief standoff with SWAT officers, he surrendered peacefully and was taken into custody. Turner was subsequently charged with murder, and his bond was set at $1 million.
A Franklin County grand jury later indicted Turner on multiple charges, including one count of aggravated murder, two counts of murder, and one count of tampering with evidence. His arraignment in Franklin County Common Pleas Court was scheduled for December 1, 2023. The case has drawn attention to the issue of domestic violence in the community, as Henderson's death marked the 23rd domestic violence-related fatality in Columbus that year, a significant increase from the previous year.
Friends and family remembered Henderson as a kind and generous individual. Her friend, Rasheda Haile, recalled how Henderson had opened her home to her during a time of need, describing her as a sweet and funny person who always had her back. In the wake of her death, a GoFundMe campaign was established to assist with funeral expenses, highlighting the financial strain her unexpected passing placed on her loved ones.
Henderson's tragic death underscores the pervasive issue of domestic violence and the importance of community resources and support for those affected. Organizations like LSS CHOICES have noted an increase in domestic violence cases and emphasize the availability of 24-hour hotlines and support services for individuals seeking help.
