CINCINNATI, OH – An Ohio man faces murder charges after allegedly shooting his friend while suggesting they play “Russian roulette.” Omarion Horne, 23, was arraigned on Friday in connection with the death of Rachel Counts, also 23.
Authorities reported that on the night of Friday, October 5, emergency responders arrived at a home in the Winton Hills neighborhood after receiving calls regarding a shooting incident. Counts was found with a gunshot wound and was pronounced dead on the scene.
Horne was arrested the following day. During the court appearance, prosecutors stated that Horne had suggested to friends, “Let’s play Russian roulette.”
According to reports, Horne and Counts were playing a card game with their significant others when the incident occurred. Horne allegedly produced a gun, removed all but one bullet, and made the suggestion to play the dangerous game.
Prosecutors indicated that Horne first pointed the gun at his own head before directing it towards Counts and pulling the trigger, resulting in the shot that killed her.
During the hearing, Judge William Mallory remarked, “It’s sad that people use a firearm as a toy, because if these circumstances are true, this is truly a tragedy.” Horne’s bail has been set at $1 million.
He is currently being held at the Hamilton County Jail. Horne’s next court date has been slated for Tuesday, October 16.
