Columbus police department - file photo
Columbus Police Department - File Photo

Columbus police charge suspect in fatal Dana Drive shooting

by
December 27, 2024

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Police have charged a 24-year-old man with murder in connection with the fatal shooting of Robert “Roderick” Smith, 44, on November 16 in the 2900 block of Dana Drive.

According to the Columbus Division of Police, officers responded to a shooting call at approximately 1:43 a.m. and found Smith suffering from gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 1:59 a.m.

After an investigation, detectives identified James Lock as the suspect responsible for Smith’s death. Lock has been charged with murder, though further details about the motive or circumstances surrounding the incident have not been released.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the case to come forward. Detective Johnson can be reached at 614-645-4488 or by email at AJohnson@columbuspolice.org. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS (8477).

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

Stilton is committed to factual reporting, source verification, transparency, and providing readers with accessible, accurate information that helps them better understand the issues shaping their communities. Through Shore News Network, he continues to focus on delivering trusted news coverage and original reporting to audiences across New Jersey and beyond.

For story tips, corrections, or media inquiries, readers can contact Shore News Network through its official website and social media channels.