COLUMBUS, Ohio — A quiet morning in West Columbus turned tragic Friday when police responded to a call on the 300 block of South Guilford Avenue, where they discovered 29-year-old Ra’Quawan Kilgore suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment, Kilgore succumbed to his injuries just after 5 p.m. the same day.
The Columbus Division of Police has confirmed Kilgore as the victim in the July 19 fatal shooting, which is now being investigated as a domestic-related homicide. Officers responded to the scene just before 6 a.m., where they encountered an adult female who identified herself as the shooter. According to police, she remained at the scene, cooperated with responding officers, and was subsequently taken into custody.
Authorities have not yet released the name of the woman involved, citing an ongoing investigation and the fact that she claimed self-defense. Preliminary reports indicate that the shooting may have stemmed from a domestic dispute, and police say the woman told investigators that she shot Kilgore after he threatened her.
The woman is cooperating fully with detectives, according to police, and no formal charges have been filed at this time. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and review the events that led up to the deadly confrontation.
While details remain limited, the shooting has cast a somber tone over the West Columbus community, where neighbors woke to the sound of police sirens and news of yet another act of violence claiming a young life.
Remembering Ra’Quawan Kilgore
Family and friends are now mourning the loss of Ra’Quawan Kilgore, a young man whose life was abruptly ended amid circumstances that remain under investigation. Known to loved ones simply as “Quawan” or “Ra’Quan,” he was remembered by those close to him as a complex, spirited individual who had experienced struggles but also carried hope for a better future.
“Quawan wasn’t perfect, but he was trying,” one friend shared. “He had a big heart, and he always looked out for his people. This is a sad end to a life that still had chapters left to write.”
His death adds to the growing concern over domestic violence in communities across the country. Law enforcement officials emphasize that while self-defense is a legal right, every domestic situation that ends in violence is a tragedy that affects families and communities for years to come.
Ongoing Investigation
Detectives with the Columbus Police Homicide Unit are continuing their investigation and are working to determine whether the woman’s claims of self-defense are supported by evidence. Officials have not ruled out the possibility of charges pending the outcome of their findings.
Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the incident — particularly those who may have witnessed anything in the early morning hours around the 300 block of South Guilford Avenue — to come forward and assist with the investigation.
Those with information can contact the Columbus Police Homicide Unit at (614) 645-4730 or submit tips anonymously through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-TIPS (8477).
As this investigation unfolds, one thing is certain: another young life has been lost, and two families are left forever changed. The community of West Columbus now joins together in grief, reflection, and a call for understanding, peace, and justice.
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