On December 21, 2024, at approximately 8:40 p.m., Columbus police responded to reports of a shooting near Tussing Elementary School, located in the 7000 block of Tussing Road in southeast Columbus. Upon arrival, officers found 21-year-old Vance Edward Stiers suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to Mount Carmel East Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 9:52 p.m.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the shooting may have been related to a robbery, though specific details have not been disclosed. As of now, no suspects have been identified or arrested in connection with Stiers' death. The Columbus Division of Police continues to investigate and has urged anyone with information to contact Detective Yoder at 614-645-2040, the Homicide Unit at 614-645-4730, or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS (8477).
Vance Stiers, a resident of Croton, Ohio, was born on July 27, 2003, in Columbus. He was a 2022 graduate of Northridge High School and C-TEC, and worked alongside his father and brother in the family business for the past four years. An adventurous spirit, Vance had a passion for riding dirt bikes, mountain biking, BMX, and longboarding. He was also a member of the FFA and the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA). One of his proudest accomplishments was winning the Loretta Lynn's Amateur Nationals in 2009, a testament to his talent and determination. He is survived by his parents, Robert and Melissa Stiers; his brother, Rob; his girlfriend, Carlie; and other family members and friends who will deeply miss him.
Funeral services for Vance are scheduled at Snyder Funeral Homes, DeVore Chapel, with visitation on December 29, 2024, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., and a funeral ceremony on December 30 at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Bell Cemetery in Utica, Ohio. The family has invited friends and loved ones to share memories and condolences on the funeral home's website.
The tragic loss of Vance has left the community in mourning, and authorities are actively seeking leads to bring those responsible to justice. Community members with any information are encouraged to come forward to assist in the investigation.
