In the early morning hours of June 14, 2020, the life of Otis DeWitt Horner Sr., a 38-year-old Black/African American male, was tragically cut short in Coffeyville, Kansas. At approximately 1:30 AM, officers from the Coffeyville Police Department responded to a report of a shooting in the 600 block of East 3rd Street. Upon their arrival, they discovered Horner suffering from gunshot wounds.
He was immediately transported by EMS to the Coffeyville Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased.
The investigation into the shooting led authorities to two suspects. Johnathan Hall, 22, and Ethan Bellamy, 21, both residents of Coffeyville, were taken into custody in connection with the homicide. The arrests were made swiftly following the incident, though details regarding a potential motive for the shooting were not publicly disclosed.
Known affectionately as "Red," Otis was remembered for his love of life and his devotion to his family. He was a talented and hardworking man who worked in construction, with skills ranging from remodeling houses to building decks. His passions included fishing, camping, traveling, and spending quality time with his loved ones. He was a father, a son, and a friend to many, known for his beautiful smile, loving nature, and a giving spirit that left a lasting impression on those who knew him. His untimely death was a profound loss for the Coffeyville community.