Antohn Fatman Saunders Jr., 19, was fatally shot in the chest on December 12, 2021, while with a group of men on Alexdon Court in east Columbus. The shooting was recorded as Columbus’ 189th homicide of the year.

Police identified 20-year-old Avonte Sanford as the shooter; Sanford fled the scene, an arrest warrant was issued, and he was found and arrested shortly after. Sanford was charged in Saunders’ murder and pleaded not guilty as the case moved through the courts. Sanford was already out on bond at the time for a previous charge alleging he shot a 16-year-old girl.

Saunders is remembered by family and friends as outgoing and loving, and his death prompted calls from the community for an end to violence in the city. If anyone knew Antohn Saunders or has information about the shooting on Alexdon Court, please share what you know.