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

COLUMBUS, OH – A 22-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a fatal stabbing that claimed the life of a 21-year-old near the Ohio State University campus earlier this month.

Police said Joseph Gerich turned himself in at Columbus Police Headquarters on Wednesday, nearly three weeks after the deadly encounter.

Suspect surrenders in fatal north high street stabbing that left 21-year-old dead — Photo: suspect surrenders in fatal north high street stabbing that left 21-year-old dead

The victim, identified as Robert Russell, was found with multiple stab wounds in the 1700 block of North High Street around 1:48 a.m. on November 2.

Key Points

Robert Russell, 21, was fatally stabbed on North High Street early November 2.
The suspect, 22-year-old Joseph Gerich, turned himself in to police on November 20.
Gerich has been charged with murder; the investigation remains ongoing.

Officers responded to early-morning stabbing

Responding officers discovered Russell suffering from apparent stab wounds and transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 2:17 a.m. Detectives immediately began canvassing the area for witnesses and surveillance footage.

Community assistance later helped investigators identify Gerich as the individual responsible for the attack.

Suspect charged after surrendering to police

Authorities said Gerich voluntarily surrendered at police headquarters and was taken into custody without incident. He has been charged with murder for causing the death of Robert Russell.

The Columbus Division of Police continues to investigate the circumstances leading up to the stabbing. Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Johnson at 614-645-4488 or submit an anonymous tip through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS (8477).

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