Grant John Siefker, a 15-year-old student from Columbus Grove, Ohio, died from a gunshot wound sustained shortly before 3 a.m. on January 7, 2024, at a residence in the 11000 block of Slabtown Road in Allen County. Deputies from the Allen County Sheriff’s Office and Putnam County EMS responded; he was taken to Mercy Health in Lima, where he later died. The property is owned by Bryan and Kate Blue; Kate Blue is identified as Siefker’s aunt. A 15-year-old male relative was taken into custody at the scene and is being held at the Allen County Juvenile Detention Center. The sheriff’s office says the preliminary investigation indicates the shooting was likely unintentional, and the circumstances that led to the shooting remain under investigation.

Siefker was active in his community and school: a Mass server at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, a 4-H member, a Leo Club participant, and an athlete in football, basketball, and track for the Columbus Grove Bulldogs. Funeral services were scheduled for January 11, 2024, with visitation at Hartman Sons Funeral Home; the family asked visitors to wear favorite sports attire. If anyone has information about the events at the Slabtown Road residence on January 7, please share it with Allen County authorities.