On March 12, 2023, 15-year-old Keshawn Watson of Columbus, Ohio, was shot in the head and taken to the hospital with a severe gunshot wound. He died of those injuries on March 16, 2023. Family members described Watson as a vibrant young man who loved sports and brought joy to those around him.

A 16-year-old initially arrested in the case, Marshawn Byrd, was charged with felonious assault; after Watson’s death those charges were upgraded to murder and the Columbus Police Department’s Homicide Unit took over the investigation. Authorities say they are working to piece together the events and motivations that led to the shooting.

The case has drawn attention amid concerns about youth violence and has left a profound impact on Watson’s family and friends. If anyone knew Keshawn or has information about what happened, please come forward to the Columbus Police Department’s Homicide Unit.