CINCINNATI, OH – June 12, 2025 — A solemn stillness hangs over Walnut Street in Over-the-Rhine today, where flashing lights and the sound of sirens pierced the early morning darkness just after midnight. What began as another quiet summer night ended in tragedy — one man killed, another wounded, and a neighborhood left rattled by yet another act of senseless violence.
The Cincinnati Police Department confirmed the fatal victim as 30-year-old Brandon Lawrence, a resident of the city and a man whose life ended far too soon. Officers responded to reports of gunfire near a Shell gas station at approximately 12:35 a.m. Thursday. They arrived to find Lawrence suffering from a critical gunshot wound. He was rushed to UC Medical Center, but despite emergency efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.
A second, unnamed victim was also found at the scene and transported for treatment. Authorities say that individual is expected to survive.
As of this writing, no suspect has been taken into custody, and the motive behind the shooting remains unknown. Police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
A Life Lost in the Night
Friends of Brandon Lawrence describe him as a warm, humorous, and generous soul — someone who “always had your back” and “could make anyone laugh, no matter how bad the day was.” His family is said to be devastated by the news, still reeling from the suddenness of it all.
“He was just getting his life on track,” a longtime friend shared, fighting back tears. “He had goals. He had dreams. He didn’t deserve this.”
Brandon’s death is yet another blow to a city already grappling with a surge in gun violence this year. Over-the-Rhine, once a neighborhood known mostly for its charm and historic architecture, now finds itself too often in the headlines for heartbreaking reasons.
An Ongoing Investigation
Detectives are working around the clock to piece together what happened in those early morning minutes. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is being reviewed, and police are canvassing the area for witnesses.
“We won’t rest until justice is served for Brandon and his family,” said a spokesperson for the Cincinnati Police Homicide Unit.
The department has asked that anyone with information — no matter how small — call CPD Homicide at (513) 352-3542, the non-emergency line at (513) 765-1212, or leave an anonymous tip through CrimeStoppers at (513) 352-3040.
Grief and Resolve
As candles flicker and flowers are placed at the site where Brandon fell, the community’s grief is met with a quiet determination to demand change.
“We can’t keep living like this,” said Pastor Elijah Brooks, who works with youth in the area. “This can’t be our normal.”
A vigil is being planned for the coming days to honor Brandon’s life, and local organizations are renewing calls for conflict resolution programs and expanded community policing efforts.
For now, Cincinnati mourns another soul lost to the unrelenting toll of violence — a young man whose future was stolen in the night, and whose name is now added to the list of lives cut short.
Rest in peace, Brandon Lawrence. You are not forgotten.