On June 17, 2023, 23-year-old Katelyn Mae Puckett was fatally shot outside her apartment in Franklin, Ohio. As she returned home, her ex-boyfriend, Elijah Malik Thomas, approached and fired nine shots at close range, striking her six times. This attack occurred in front of witnesses.
Following the incident, Thomas was arrested and charged with aggravated murder, among other offenses. After a two-day trial, he was found guilty and subsequently sentenced to life in prison. He will be eligible for parole after serving 40 to 42 years.
Born on October 5, 1999, in Middletown, Ohio, Katelyn graduated from Marshall High School in 2022. She was a member of the True Victory Church of Middletown and was known for her love of the outdoors, singing, and making videos. Katelyn cherished her role as a mother and enjoyed umpiring at Dreamcatchers Field at Goldman Park.
The community mourns the loss of Katelyn Puckett, remembering her as a devoted mother and vibrant individual whose life was tragically cut short.
