On June 24, 2023, at approximately 3:30 a.m., Harrisburg police officers responded to gunshots near the 200 block of South 19th Street. Upon arrival, they discovered 20-year-old Cleo Richard Stubbs, a resident of Steelton, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to his upper torso. Stubbs was transported to Holy Spirit Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Investigations revealed that prior to the shooting, a verbal altercation had occurred at a residence on South 19th Street.
Both Stubbs and 41-year-old Harrisburg resident, Renard Bowles, were present and were asked to leave the premises. Shortly after their departure, gunshots were heard. A witness reported seeing Bowles standing over the injured Stubbs with a firearm in his hand. Additionally, Bowles allegedly confessed to the shooting to an associate, who later provided a statement to the police.
Following the issuance of an arrest warrant, Bowles surrendered to authorities on July 7, 2023. He was charged with murder and possession of a prohibited firearm and was held without bail. The tragic death of Cleo Stubbs, who was known for his kindness and generosity, deeply affected the Harrisburg community. His family, including his grandmother, Reverend Joann D. Ramsey-Powell, mourned his loss and remembered him as someone who enjoyed helping neighbors and spending time with loved ones.
