Allen Toombs Jr. was 16 when he was fatally shot on November 15, 2020, near Cusseta Road and Conner Road in Columbus, Georgia. Born January 22, 2004, Allen is described as a beloved son and brother; his death prompted a police homicide investigation that focused on a suspect, 20-year-old Lilmarcus Terell Ransom.

Investigators concluded there was no prior relationship or known connection between Allen and the suspect. Ransom was arrested and charged with malice murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The defense argued he was in the wrong place at the wrong time, while the prosecution presented evidence tying him to the November shooting.

Court proceedings culminated in a guilty plea and a life sentence with the possibility of parole. Allen’s mother, Shalonda Flagg, read an impact statement about the loss. If anyone has information about Allen or the events that night, please share what you know.