A Gunshot. A Crash. A Life Cut Short: The Tragic Death of 14-Year-Old Lorenzio Galloway Jr.
Columbus, OH — A gunshot. A crash. A silence that fell too quickly on a Saturday that will never be forgotten.
Lorenzio Galloway Jr., just 14 years old, lost his life in a tragic and violent sequence of events that continues to shake the community to its core. What began as a collision on Cleveland Avenue ended with the devastating revelation that the young teen inside the wrecked vehicle had been shot multiple times. By the time first responders arrived, Lorenzio’s body bore the terrible truth—his injuries were not from the crash alone.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Sudden, Shocking Loss
Witnesses reported hearing a loud crash followed by silence—no shouting, no movement, only the eerie stillness of tragedy. As police began their investigation, it quickly became clear that Lorenzio had not simply been in a traffic accident. He was the victim of gun violence, a child targeted or caught in something he never should have been near.
There have been no arrests, no suspects, and few answers. As detectives continue to gather evidence, the Columbus Division of Police has issued a plea to the public: anyone with information—no matter how small—is urged to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and community cooperation could be the key to bringing Lorenzio’s killer to justice.
A Family’s Nightmare
Behind every headline is a grieving family—and Lorenzio’s is now grappling with unimaginable pain. A young life, full of potential, laughter, and dreams, was taken with unspeakable violence. He was someone’s son, someone’s brother, someone’s friend. Now, he is another name added to the ever-growing list of children lost to senseless violence.
His loved ones are left with memories far too few and questions that may never be fully answered. In their heartbreak, they are not alone. The entire community mourns alongside them, standing together in sorrow, frustration, and an urgent demand for change.
Neighbors Speak Out
On Cleveland Avenue, neighbors are still shaken by what they witnessed—or heard. One resident described hearing “a loud screech, like metal twisting,” followed by nothing. Others rushed outside, only to be met with flashing lights, police tape, and the devastating news of a young life gone.
Many in the neighborhood are afraid, frustrated, and heartbroken. They speak of Lorenzio as more than just a name—they speak of him as another child who should still be here, another victim of a system and society struggling to protect its most vulnerable.
A Plea for Justice
While police continue their investigation, Lorenzio’s family and community have made a simple, urgent plea: help us find who did this. Authorities are calling on anyone who may have seen something—any car speeding away, any suspicious movement, any social media post that raises questions—to come forward.
Tips can be submitted to the Columbus Police Homicide Unit or anonymously through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS (8477).
There is also growing pressure on city leaders, community activists, and law enforcement to address the rise in gun violence—especially among and against young people. Lorenzio’s death must not be forgotten or ignored. It must become a catalyst for change.
Remembering Lorenzio
At just 14, Lorenzio Galloway Jr. had so much life ahead of him. Friends and classmates describe him as bright, funny, and curious—a kid with a warm heart and big dreams. He liked music. He loved being around people. And though his future was stolen, his memory remains deeply embedded in the hearts of those who knew him.
A candlelight vigil is expected to be held in the coming days, as the community gathers to remember Lorenzio, celebrate his life, and mourn what could have been. The loss of a child is every family’s worst fear—and now it’s a reality that Lorenzio’s family must somehow learn to live with.
In Solidarity, In Sorrow
To the Galloway family, and to everyone mourning Lorenzio’s loss: we stand with you. We speak his name. We demand justice. And we hold space for your grief in a world that too often moves on too quickly.
Let Lorenzio Galloway Jr.’s death not be in vain. Let his name echo until there are answers, until there is accountability, and until no more children have to die this way.
“Gone too soon, but never forgotten. In our hearts, your light still shines.” 🕯️