Douglas Menser, 66, was a long-time Ruskin Heights resident, Army veteran and retired mechanic described as generous and caring. A father of three and a foster grandfather to many, he had recently opened his home on East 108th Terrace to 39-year-old Donald E. Crowe after learning Crowe faced homelessness.Crowe had been known to Menser’s family for about two decades and was treated like family. On the morning of January 19, 2023, Menser was shot eight times inside his home. He managed to call 911, told the dispatcher he was about to pass out and identified Donald E.

Crowe as the man who shot him. Officers found Menser on his front porch; he was taken to Research Medical Center and died less than two hours later.Police located and arrested Crowe that same day. Crowe acknowledged being at the house that morning but said Menser was fine when he left. He was charged with second-degree murder and armed criminal action and held on $250,000 bond; a judge ordered a psychological evaluation.

If anyone knew Menser or has information about that morning, please come forward.