Fifteen-year-old Ray Estep of Springfield, Ohio, died on November 9, 2024, after suffering a gunshot wound to the torso at a residence in the Northridge area of Moorfield Township. According to the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, a group of teenagers was socializing when a 16-year-old pointed a firearm at Estep during what was described as horseplay. The teen removed the magazine, believed the gun to be unloaded, pulled the trigger, and the gun fired. Estep was taken to a hospital but died later that evening.

The 16-year-old who fired the weapon was charged with reckless homicide and held at the Juvenile Detention Center. Kenton Ridge High School classmates and the wider community have expressed grief, and the Northeastern Local School District has offered mental health resources and counseling. A memorial scholarship is being planned in Estep’s name.

If anyone who knew Ray or was at the residence that night can provide information about the events leading up to the shooting, please come forward.