Richard Murphy dies in fatal Columbus shooting

Richard Murphy dies in fatal Columbus shooting

Fatal Columbus shooting death of Richard Murphy – Obituary

Richard D. Murphy, 19, was shot and killed on May 12, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio, following what authorities say was an argument that turned deadly. The incident occurred on South Princeton Avenue just before 5:30 p.m.

Emergency responders arrived to find Murphy suffering from a gunshot wound. He was taken to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead shortly after, at 6:02 p.m.

Columbus police have since arrested two suspects in connection with the shooting: 18-year-old Joseph Johnson Jr. and 14-year-old Zion Cantrell. The pair were taken into custody by the Columbus Police SWAT team on Tuesday.

Investigators believe the fatal confrontation stemmed from a dispute, though further details on the motive or events leading up to the shooting have not been made public. It is also not yet clear whether the teens will be charged as adults or what specific charges they face.

The case remains active and is being investigated by the Columbus Division of Police Homicide Unit.