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Gunfire erupts in parking lot after dispute inside South High Street business

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1 min read
October 2, 2025

Columbus, OH – A heated argument inside a South High Street business spilled into the parking lot Sunday afternoon, ending with gunfire and a felony arrest.

Police said two customers clashed inside the business shortly after 3 p.m. The confrontation escalated when one of the men, identified as 38-year-old Joseph Pacheco, went to his vehicle, retrieved a handgun, and returned to confront the other customer. Investigators said the victim tried to escape to his car when Pacheco allegedly fired at the vehicle.

Gunfire erupts in parking lot after dispute inside south high street business
Photo: gunfire erupts in parking lot after dispute inside south high street business

Responding officers quickly detained Pacheco and recovered a firearm at the scene. No injuries were reported, and police confirmed neither the victim nor his vehicle was struck by the bullet.

Pacheco was arrested and charged with felony assault, according to the Columbus Division of Police.

What began as a customer dispute ended with a man in handcuffs and a bullet fired in broad daylight.

Phil Stilton

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