14-Year-Old Lorenzio Galloway Jr. Identified as Victim in Columbus Shooting and Vehicle Crash in South Linden; Police Launch Homicide Investigation as Community Mourns Tragic Loss of Young Life

COLUMBUS, Ohio – April 14, 2025 — The Columbus community is mourning the death of 14-year-old Lorenzio Galloway Jr., who tragically lost his life over the weekend following a fatal shooting and vehicle crash in the South Linden neighborhood. Columbus Police released the identity of the young victim in a public statement Monday, calling on the community for assistance as the investigation continues.

The incident unfolded on Saturday evening, April 12, when officers were dispatched to the intersection of Cleveland Avenue and East 12th Avenue around 7:47 p.m., after receiving reports of a car crash in the area. Upon arrival, first responders discovered a chaotic scene involving a damaged vehicle—and inside, a juvenile male suffering from a gunshot wound.

Victim Transported in Critical Condition, Later Pronounced Dead

Emergency medical personnel provided immediate care and transported the victim—identified as Lorenzio Galloway Jr.—to a nearby hospital, where he was initially listed in critical condition. Despite the efforts of doctors and emergency staff, the teen was pronounced dead a short time later.

His death marks another devastating moment in the city’s ongoing battle against youth gun violence.

“This was a child—a 14-year-old boy with his entire life ahead of him,” said one resident who asked not to be named. “To know he was gunned down and then crashed in a car like that…it breaks your heart.”

Investigation Underway; No Arrests Yet

Detectives with the Columbus Police Homicide Unit are actively working to uncover the circumstances surrounding both the shooting and the vehicle crash. As of Monday evening, no suspects have been publicly identified, and no arrests have been made.

Investigators have not confirmed whether Galloway was the driver of the vehicle, a passenger, or if the car had any connection to the shooting incident itself. They are also exploring whether the crash occurred before or after the gunfire.

Police have not yet released any potential motive or whether they believe the shooting was targeted or random.

Community Shocked, Parents Fear for Youth Safety

The South Linden neighborhood, which has struggled with episodes of violence in recent years, is once again reeling from the loss of a young life. Galloway’s death has sparked outrage and sorrow, particularly among parents and local leaders who have long called for more investment in youth outreach, safety programs, and community policing.

“This isn’t just a police matter—it’s a community crisis,” said Angela Martin, a neighborhood organizer. “We’re losing our babies to gunfire. We need every parent, teacher, coach, and leader to step up.”

Outside a makeshift memorial that began to form on Monday morning near the crash site, friends and classmates left candles, handwritten notes, and photos in remembrance of Galloway. Many described him as “funny,” “loyal,” and “always smiling.” He was an 8th grader, according to those familiar with his family, and had a passion for music and video games.

Police Urge Public to Come Forward

In a plea for assistance, the Columbus Police Department is urging anyone with information related to the shooting or the events leading up to the crash to come forward.

“We know someone out there saw something or knows something,” said a spokesperson for the department. “If you can help us bring justice to this young boy and his grieving family, now is the time to speak.”

Tips can be submitted to the Columbus Police Homicide Unit at (614) 645-4730 or anonymously through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers by calling (614) 461-TIPS (8477). Anonymous online submissions are also accepted via the Crime Stoppers website.

Another Life Lost to Gun Violence

The tragic death of Lorenzio Galloway Jr. is not just another statistic—it is a painful reminder of how quickly violence can claim a young life and devastate a family, a school, and a community. His passing adds to a troubling trend in Ohio and across the country, where youth homicides due to firearms remain at alarming levels.

City leaders have promised continued efforts to improve public safety, but residents are calling for immediate and tangible action—more street patrols, more youth programming, and stronger efforts to prevent gun access among minors.

As the investigation continues, Columbus is left grappling with a simple but heart-wrenching question: How many more children must die before things change?