On November 10, 2023, at approximately 5:02 p.m., 52-year-old Bret A. Bennett of Grove City, Ohio, was fatally shot in an apparent road rage incident on Interstate 670 East near North 4th Street in Columbus. Responding officers found Bennett with a gunshot wound; he was transported to Grant Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 5:26 p.m.
The suspect, identified as 37-year-old Tony Brock, was arrested in connection with the shooting.
Through his attorney, Brock contacted detectives, admitted to firing the shot that killed Bennett, and provided information leading to the recovery of the firearm and his black Ford F-150 pickup truck involved in the incident.
However, in December 2023, a Franklin County grand jury returned a 'no bill,' indicating insufficient evidence to indict Brock on murder charges at that time. The Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney's Office noted that the matter might be subject to further review, leaving open the possibility of presenting the case to a new grand jury.
In March 2024, prosecutors refiled murder charges against Brock. He pleaded not guilty to the new charges and was released on bond pending further legal proceedings. The case remains under investigation as authorities seek justice for Bennett's death.
Bret Bennett was remembered as a generous individual, known for his involvement in the community and as the owner of Village Cigars in German Village. His family and friends continue to honor his legacy while awaiting a resolution in the legal process concerning his death.
