The Columbus Division of Police has confirmed the identity of the victim in a fatal stabbing that unfolded in the early morning hours of August 22 in the Weinland Park neighborhood. Authorities say the victim, 24-year-old Petes K. Laurent-Baptisma, succumbed to his injuries two days after the altercation, marking yet another tragic incident of violence in the city.
Incident Details
Officers were dispatched shortly before 1 a.m. to the 1200 block of Summit Street after reports of a violent fight. When first responders arrived, they found Laurent-Baptisma suffering from multiple stab wounds. Emergency medical crews transported him to a local hospital in critical condition. Despite undergoing emergency treatment, he died from his injuries on August 24. The Franklin County Coroner’s Office later ruled the death a homicide.
According to investigators, Laurent-Baptisma sustained three stab wounds—two to his lower right forearm and one to his upper chest. Police reports indicate that the stabbing was carried out by an “unknown black male” during the course of the altercation. Authorities have not yet publicly released the suspect’s identity, though they have confirmed that the individual involved is known to law enforcement. The case is expected to be presented before a Franklin County grand jury for review.
Witness Accounts and Background
Court documents reveal that the events leading up to the stabbing began with a domestic dispute. Laurent-Baptisma allegedly struck his live-in girlfriend during the confrontation. His sister, who was present at the time, told detectives that she witnessed the assault but did not see the stabbing itself.
Investigators also noted that Laurent-Baptisma had previously been charged with domestic violence and assault before his death. Detectives are still working to piece together the full timeline of the incident and the actions of all involved parties.
Community Impact and Police Response
The homicide has shaken residents of Weinland Park, a neighborhood that has faced its share of violent crime in recent years. Authorities are urging community members to remain vigilant and report any information that could assist in the case.
Detective Collins, who is leading the investigation alongside Detective Johnson, emphasized the department’s commitment to justice. “This tragic incident underscores the danger of domestic disputes escalating into deadly violence,” Collins said. “We encourage anyone with knowledge of the events that night to come forward and help us bring closure to the family of the victim.”
Call for Information
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Columbus Police Homicide Unit at (614) 645-4730 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-TIPS (8477). Anonymous tips are also accepted.
A Tragic Reminder
The death of Petes K. Laurent-Baptisma serves as a grim reminder of how quickly personal disputes can escalate into irreversible tragedy. As the investigation moves forward, authorities continue to call for community cooperation in addressing violence and preventing similar incidents in the future.