Authorities in Gahanna, Ohio, have identified 71-year-old Gary Frantz as the victim of a fatal shooting inside a Subway restaurant on December 20. The incident occurred at the Stoneridge Lane location in StoneRidge Plaza, near Morse and Hamilton roads, late Friday afternoon. Frantz, a customer standing in line to order food, was tragically shot in the head.
When police arrived at the scene, they found Frantz lying on the floor, unresponsive. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Gahanna Deputy Chief of Police Jeffrey Lawless confirmed that Frantz had no prior connection to the suspect, making the crime even more senseless.
The suspect, identified as 30-year-old William Marshall, was arrested shortly after the shooting. Officers found him outside the restaurant, sitting on the curb with his hands raised and completely unclothed. Marshall was immediately taken into custody and charged with aggravated murder. Authorities are now working to uncover the events leading up to the attack and determine a possible motive.
While investigators continue to gather evidence, they have yet to explain Marshall’s actions or the reason behind the shooting. The Gahanna Police Department is urging witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. Law enforcement officials are also reviewing surveillance footage from the restaurant and surrounding areas to piece together the crime’s timeline.
The Gahanna community has been left shaken by the violent incident. Residents have expressed shock and sorrow for Frantz’s family, mourning the loss of a beloved member of their community. The senseless nature of the crime has raised concerns about safety in public spaces, prompting calls for increased vigilance and awareness.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on securing justice for Gary Frantz and his grieving family. The legal proceedings against Marshall will seek to bring accountability for this tragedy. For now, the community is left grappling with the devastating loss and reflecting on the importance of addressing violence to prevent future tragedies.