On February 5, 2023, at about 2:54 a.m., Columbus police answered multiple reports of shots fired in the 3300 block of Markham Road in south Columbus. Officers found two men with gunshot wounds; both were taken to a local hospital. One victim, 20-year-old Marchel Lamarion Rasheed Brooks, died of his injuries and was pronounced dead at Grant Medical Center on February 7, 2023.

Marchel Brooks, known as Chel, was born October 28, 2002, to Tamara Valentine and Clarence Brooks. He was a twin and the youngest of nine siblings. Baptized at age ten at Southfield Missionary Baptist Church, he attended Columbus Alternative High School and Marion-Franklin High School and was active in youth football and AAU basketball. Family and friends remember him for his charisma, infectious smile, love of video games and music, and entrepreneurial spirit.

No arrests have been announced and the Columbus Police Homicide Unit continues to investigate. Central Ohio Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward for information. If anyone knew Marchel or has information about the shooting, contact Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS (8477) or submit an anonymous tip online; all tips remain confidential.