Lamar Octmous Ross Obituary, Death – Authorities have released the identity of the man who lost his life in an early-morning shooting on North High Street on Friday. The victim, identified as 25-year-old Lamar Octmous Ross, died at a nearby hospital after being rushed there in critical condition. Medical personnel pronounced him dead at approximately 3:30 a.m., marking yet another violent incident in the downtown Columbus area.
According to information from police, the shooting occurred in a busy part of downtown, near the Ohio Statehouse and close to the intersection of North High Street and Lynn Alley. The area is typically active both day and night, with a mix of pedestrian and vehicle traffic, government buildings, and businesses. The incident took place in the early hours of the morning, a time when the streets are generally quieter, though still frequented by late-night workers and early commuters.
Investigators say Ross was struck multiple times by gunfire. While officers have confirmed that several shots hit the victim, the circumstances leading up to the shooting remain unclear. Police have not released details about what may have motivated the gunfire, nor have they said whether Ross was targeted or caught in a sudden confrontation that escalated into violence.
Following the shooting, first responders arrived quickly, providing emergency aid before transporting Ross to a local hospital. Despite their efforts, his injuries were too severe. The Franklin County Coroner’s Office will conduct a full examination to document the extent of his wounds and finalize the official cause of death.
The violent incident triggered an immediate response from law enforcement. Officers cordoned off a section of North High Street—from Broad Street to Gay Street—to preserve the scene and gather evidence. Crime scene investigators spent several hours analyzing the location, photographing the area, placing evidence markers, and searching for shell casings or other physical clues that could help them understand what happened. The temporary road closure disrupted traffic briefly, but the streets were reopened once detectives completed their initial overview.
Authorities have not released information about any suspects, potential witnesses, or whether surveillance cameras captured the event. Given the location, investigators are likely reviewing footage from city-operated cameras, private businesses, and nearby government buildings. North High Street is heavily monitored, which may play a crucial role in helping detectives piece together the sequence of events.
At this stage, police have not shared whether they believe the shooting was an isolated incident or part of a broader dispute. They have also not confirmed whether anyone else was involved or injured. Detectives are now working to establish a timeline, determine who may have been present at the time, and gather statements from individuals who were in the area during the early morning hours.
Community members familiar with the downtown district expressed concern about the growing number of late-night incidents reported near the Statehouse and along High Street. While police have not drawn any connections between this case and other recent events, the proximity to prominent landmarks underscores the urgency of the investigation.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that even small details can help move the case forward. Tips can often help identify leads, clarify the shooter’s movements, or confirm whether Ross had any prior interactions with individuals in the area before the gunfire erupted.
As the investigation continues, the death of Lamar Octmous Ross adds to the city’s list of unresolved violence-related cases. Police will release additional information as it becomes available, including updates on possible suspects, motives, or arrests. For now, detectives remain focused on uncovering the circumstances that led to the tragic shooting and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
