On June 25, 2023, Susan E. Petterson, a 63-year-old resident of Olmsted Township, Ohio, was fatally shot by her ex-husband, Bernard Smith, 60, at the Giant Eagle supermarket in North Olmsted where she was employed. The incident occurred around 9:35 a.m., with approximately 67 employees and 200 customers present in the store at the time. Smith entered the store and shot Petterson before turning the gun on himself, resulting in both of their deaths.
Petterson and Smith were married and divorced in 2004. Authorities believe their strained post-divorce relationship may have contributed to the tragic event. The North Olmsted Police Department is investigating the case as a murder-suicide.
In response to the tragedy, Giant Eagle expressed deep sorrow and emphasized their commitment to the safety of their team members and guests. North Olmsted Mayor Nicole Dailey Jones extended condolences to Petterson's family and friends, acknowledging the profound impact on the community.
Petterson was remembered as a devoted partner and mother, with a career that included roles in computer programming and IT support. She had been working as a cashier at the time of her death. Her passions included cooking, baking, caring for her pets, and connecting with nature. She is survived by her partner of 20 years, Daniel Chelednik, her child, Julianne Petterson Smith, and several siblings, nieces, and nephews.
A funeral service was held on July 1, 2023, at Chambers Funeral Home of North Olmsted, followed by interment at Chestnut Grove Cemetery in Olmsted Falls. The community continues to mourn the loss of Susan Petterson, reflecting on her contributions and the senseless nature of her death.
