On January 9, 2023, authorities discovered the body of 40-year-old Christopher L. Bates of Crooksville, Ohio, lying in the roadway near 11833 Old Rainer Road in Roseville. The Perry County Coroner's Office pronounced him deceased at the scene, noting two apparent gunshot wounds. The exact cause of death awaited autopsy results at that time.
The Perry County Sheriff's Office Special Investigations Unit promptly initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Bates's death. Their efforts led to the arrest of 25-year-old Joshua D. Bergeron, also from Crooksville. Initially, authorities charged Bergeron with one count of involuntary manslaughter. Subsequent developments saw a grand jury indict him on two counts of murder and two counts of felonious assault.
In July 2023, Bergeron entered a guilty plea to involuntary manslaughter. The court sentenced him to a prison term ranging from 13 to 15 years. Perry County Sheriff William Barker remarked on the tragedy, stating, "Mr. Bates’ death was tragic and never should have happened. He didn’t deserve it. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Bates family."
Christopher Bates was remembered as a caring individual who enjoyed sharing smiles with family and friends. He had a passion for collecting rocks and was often seen walking around Crooksville and Roseville. His love for travel took him across various states, including Arkansas, Oregon, and Idaho. His untimely death deeply saddened both his family and the community.
