Luke William Cabbage was 19 when he was shot and killed on September 11, 2017, in the front yard of a home in Newcomerstown, Ohio. Born May 4, 1998, in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, he grew up in New Philadelphia, graduated from New Philadelphia High School in 2016, briefly attended Akron University, and worked at Buehler’s and Subway. He loved traveling and competing in Kendama competitions and was remembered for a contagious smile and friendly nature.

The shooting happened during an attempted robbery tied to a drug deal. Luke suffered a single gunshot wound that severely damaged his right lung and perforated his pulmonary artery; he bled out within minutes despite efforts to save him. Arnoldo Moreno-Orduno, 19, was arrested and later pleaded guilty to aggravated murder, multiple murder counts, aggravated robbery, conspiracy and tampering with evidence; he received life with the possibility of parole after 25 years. Two co-defendants were charged, and Kyle Boyd received concurrent sentences after pleading to involuntary manslaughter and conspiracy; Boyd spoke of remorse and seeking addiction rehabilitation.

The community and officials expressed sorrow at the loss. Luke’s funeral was held September 18, 2017, with burial at Evergreen Burial Park in New Philadelphia. If anyone knew Luke, his movements that day, or has information about the events in Newcomerstown, please come forward.