On March 14, 1985 at about 1:00 a.m., 35-year-old Mark Mellick was found beaten to death in the fenced area of his yard in Mansfield, Ohio. The Richland County Coroner’s report lists the cause as a subdural hematoma to the right cerebrum due to blunt force trauma. A trail of blood from Mellick’s truck and signs of a struggle were present at the scene.

The night before, Mellick had been at Scotty’s Tavern where he ate pizza and drank with a female acquaintance and left around midnight or shortly after. He failed to show up for work the next morning at Lehr Awning Company, prompting an employee to check his home and discover the body. Investigators have identified possible suspects and say Mellick was involved in a relationship with a married woman; other motives have also been reported as potential factors.

Detectives with the Richland County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit continue to review evidence and seek leads. If anyone knew Mark, saw him that night, or has information about his relationships or movements, please come forward.