Overnight Shooting in Over-the-Rhine Leaves One Dead, Another Injured
CINCINNATI, OH — A quiet Thursday morning in Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood was shattered by violence when gunfire erupted shortly after midnight, leaving one man dead and another injured. The Cincinnati Police Department confirmed the shooting occurred at approximately 12:35 a.m. on Walnut Street near Corwine Avenue, prompting a swift emergency response and the launch of a homicide investigation.
The deceased victim has been identified by police as Brandon Lawrence, 30, a local resident whose life was cut short in a tragic act of gun violence. Lawrence was transported by first responders to the UC Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The news of his death has devastated family members and community members alike, many of whom gathered near the scene in disbelief as the investigation unfolded.
A second victim, whose name has not been released, was reportedly taken by private vehicle to Christ Hospital. According to officials, that individual sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to recover. Authorities have not disclosed whether the two victims knew each other or whether they were both intended targets.
Police Response and Investigation
Shortly after the incident, Cincinnati police blocked off several streets surrounding the crime scene to preserve evidence and maintain public safety. Officers cordoned off the area along Walnut Street, where shell casings and other evidence were found strewn along the sidewalk and roadway.
Investigators with the Cincinnati Police Homicide Unit canvassed the area, interviewing witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and residences in an effort to piece together the events leading up to the shooting. However, as of Thursday morning, no suspect information has been released.
Authorities believe there may be multiple witnesses who either saw the shooting or observed suspicious behavior in the area shortly before or after the gunfire. Residents reported hearing several loud shots ring out just before police and emergency medical services arrived on the scene.
Sgt. Michael Wiggins of the Cincinnati Police Department urged anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in solving crimes of this nature:
“Someone out there knows something. We are working around the clock to find those responsible, and we’re asking for the public’s help. Even the smallest detail could be the key to justice.”
Community Reaction
The Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, a historically rich and culturally vibrant area that has seen both revitalization and growing concerns about violence, is now mourning the loss of another young life. Local residents expressed grief and frustration over the continued toll of gun violence in Cincinnati.
“Brandon was a good person,” said a friend who asked not to be named. “He didn’t deserve this. He had his whole life ahead of him. We’re tired of losing people like this.”
Community leaders and anti-violence advocates have repeatedly called for stronger intervention programs, increased neighborhood patrols, and better support systems for at-risk individuals. Thursday’s shooting underscores the urgency of those calls.
How to Help
The Cincinnati Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying the person or persons responsible. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 513-352-3040. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
As the investigation continues, the family of Brandon Lawrence now faces the unimaginable task of planning a funeral instead of looking forward to a future filled with promise. His name now joins a growing list of lives lost to gun violence in the city—each one a tragedy, each one a call to action.
This is a developing story. More updates will be provided as information becomes available.