David Allen Jr., a 19-year-old man from Bellaire, Ohio, was shot and killed on April 27, 2024, at the Francis Wallace Apartments, where he and the shooter lived. Bellaire Police say arguments had been ongoing that day between two groups of friends. Allen, who was unarmed, confronted 21-year-old Brian Alexis Melott near an apartment entrance after his friends said Melott had been waving a gun. Melott told police he believed Allen was going to hit him and fired one shot from his hip; the bullet struck Allen in the chest and he died at the scene.

Melott attempted to flee but was held at gunpoint by another resident until police arrived. Officers arrested him and report that he admitted to firing the shot. The shooter had purchased the gun legally shortly after turning 21.

If anyone at Francis Wallace Apartments that evening or anyone who knew David or the people involved can share information, please come forward.