Thomas Williams, 34, of Youngstown, Ohio, was fatally shot on March 4, 2021 in the parking lot of King’s Court tavern at 3223 South Avenue. The shooting followed an exchange of gunfire after Erik Jenkins, 25, of Columbus, reportedly opened fire on a security guard; the guard returned fire. It is not clear which bullet killed Williams. Youngstown police identified a second person who was at the scene but have not confirmed that person’s role in the shooting.

Charges were filed against Jenkins for murder on the basis that he initiated the altercation; Jenkins later turned himself in at the Mahoning County jail. Police and city officials held a news conference about the case and appealed to the public for information as the investigation remained active.

If anyone witnessed the shooting or has information about the second person present that night, please come forward to assist the investigation.