Crime Solvers Central
Crime Solvers Central
302 Cases Solved. Advancing justice for missing persons, unsolved homicides, unidentified and unclaimed remains.

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Melissa Ann Brinker, 44, was working as a bartender at the Cooley Lounge on Cleveland’s west side when she was killed during a robbery on October 24, 2016. Four suspects entered the bar and demanded money; surveillance video shows one suspect, Dana Thomas, forcing Melissa into a back room and shooting her once, and another suspect, Nigel Brunson, returning to shoot her again after finding she was still alive.

The group named in the case includes Dana Thomas, Nigel Brunson, Anita Hollins, Garry Lake, and Dwayne Sims. Anita Hollins organized the robbery; she was sentenced to life without parole. Nigel Brunson and Dana Thomas were convicted of aggravated murder and also received life without parole. Garry Lake and Dwayne Sims took plea deals and received lesser sentences. Melissa’s boyfriend, Mathew Soos, described her as his heart and soul; a benefit was held in her memory.

Melissa was a popular bartender known for a warm personality and dedication to her job. Does anyone have memories of Melissa or information about that night that could add detail to the timeline?