On April 15, 2023, Kevin Smith, a 60-year-old homeless man, was shot and killed inside a detached garage on the 600 block of East Whittier Street in the Southern Orchards neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio. The incident occurred around 6 a.m. when police received a call about a reported trespasser. Before officers could arrive, a second call came in stating that the trespasser had been shot by someone at the residence.
Smith was found dead from gunshot wounds when police arrived at the scene. An autopsy conducted by the Franklin County Coroner's office revealed that Smith had been shot five times, with wounds to his head, right chest, left portion of his back, and right shoulder. The order in which the shots hit him was not clear.
The shooting took place after a series of 911 calls. Initially, a neighbor reported seeing a man in the backyard of the home who then entered the garage. Subsequently, the 39-year-old resident of the home called 911, stating that someone had broken into his house and garage and was trying to take his belongings. During this call, the resident admitted to shooting the intruder multiple times, claiming self-defense as he was being attacked.
As of the latest available information, no arrests have been made in connection with Smith's death. The investigation into the incident, which was ruled a homicide, remains ongoing. The identity of the shooter has not been publicly released, and no charges had been filed as of the last report.
Smith was described by those who knew him as a friendly, gregarious person who was well-known and respected in the community. He was a regular presence at the United Methodist Church & Community Development for All People, where he volunteered and attended Bible studies. Friends and community members expressed shock and sadness at his death, describing him as a calm individual who would not have provoked a violent confrontation.
The incident has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the shooting and has drawn attention to the plight of Columbus' unhoused population. Community members and advocates have called for a thorough investigation into Smith's death and for broader efforts to address the housing crisis in the city.
