Ohio News

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- May had more million-dollar home sales in Franklin County than any other month this year, but these sales are concentrated in just a few suburbs.

As of June 12, 95 Franklin County homes have sold for $1 million or more, heavily concentrated in select neighborhoods. More than half of the county's million-dollar sales took place in Upper Arlington and New Albany.

1970s fish and chips chain Arthur Treacher's to make central Ohio return

In 2025, 15 homes have sold for more than $2 million, 10 of which are in New Albany. The city has attracted billions in investments through Intel and other developers in recent years.

Of these sales, the average purchase was $1,483,718, and just 13 were under $1.1 million. May had the most major home sales with 28 sales at or above $1 million.

Million-dollar sales are slightly behind where they were in 2024, with 104 homes sold for $1 million or higher by this date last year. Columbus Realtors President Buffie Patterson said that although sales in central Ohio are up, hotspots have emerged in Marion and the Olentangy Local School District, both primarily outside of Franklin County.

These sales are predicted to continue. In 2024, most of the priciest home sales took place from June onward. Patterson said April was just the start of peak listing season, which will continue into summer.

In just 12 days, June has already seen 11 million-dollar sales, with five between June 9 and June 11. So far in June, the most expensive home sold was a New Albany residence purchased on June 3 for $4.2 million.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – A recently introduced Ohio bill inspired by a Columbus man's disappearance aims to help solve missing persons cases in the state.

The FIND Act, sponsored by Reps. Christine Cockley (D-Columbus) and Kevin Ritter (R-Marietta), would require law enforcement agencies in the state to enter missing people into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) within 30 days of a report being filed with police.

NamUs is a free national database of missing persons and unidentified remains. Dental records, fingerprints and DNA profiles can be uploaded to the platform, helping law enforcement, medical examiners and coroners identify remains as missing people. Since the database was launched in 2007, it has helped solve over 46,000 cases across the country. 

“We are at a pivotal moment when technology can help solve cases that have remained unsolved for years,” Cockley said in a statement. “The FIND Act will equip law enforcement and medical professionals across Ohio with the tools they need to support families of the missing, while also giving families and the public a greater voice in the process.”

At the bill’s first hearing in April, Cockley said every day on her drive to work, she passes a billboard on West Broad Street featuring information about Andrew “Andy” Chapman, who has been missing from her district since 2006. She said Andy’s story inspired her to introduce the legislation.

“Andy’s case is not an isolated one,” Cockley said. “There are hundreds of families in Ohio still waiting for answers. What makes that wait even harder is knowing that we are not using all the tools we have available.”

While many police departments in the state do enter missing people into NamUs, it is currently not required by law. Andy Chapman’s sister Aimee Chapman said when Cockley called and shared that the billboard inspired her to introduce a bill, her family was “so happy.” 

“If you are familiar with Andy's story, unfortunately he fell into opioid addiction, and I feel like we're changing his legacy,” Aimee Chapman said. “We're changing it from a missing addict to somebody who's making a difference.”

While the bill likely will not make a difference in Andy Chapman's case, which was entered into NamUs by Columbus police in 2011, Aimee Chapman said she hopes it can help other missing people.

“If we can help another family not have to go through the mishaps that we went through by getting this bill passed, that would be a huge victory for our family,” Aimee Chapman said. 

Currently, over 1,100 residents – including both adults and children – are missing, according to a database maintained by the state’s attorney general’s office. Recorded cases date to 1928, with the disappearance of 4-year-old Melvin Horst. 

If the act is signed into law, Ohio would become the 17th state in the country to mandate the use of NamUs in missing persons investigations. 

The bill has 17 cosponsors, consisting of both Democrats and Republicans. It was assigned to the House’s Public Safety Committee, where residents will have the chance to testify in support and opposition of the bill. 

MADISON TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WCMH) – One person is dead after a single-car crash involving a stolen vehicle in Madison Township early Friday morning. 

At about 12:13 a.m., a white 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe was traveling eastbound on Winchester Pike, approaching Bixby Road. The vehicle traveled off the south side of the roadway, slid into a field, then rolled, according to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. 

1970s fish and chips chain Arthur Treacher’s to make central Ohio return

The driver was ejected from the vehicle, and found laying on the edge of the roadway. Medics pronounced the individual, who was the only occupant of the vehicle, dead at 12:17 a.m.

Law enforcement later discovered that the Tahoe was recently reported missing from the Canal Winchester area. 

The sheriff’s office is continuing to investigate the crash and asks anyone with information to contact their crash investigation unit at 614-525-6113.

GROVE CITY, Ohio (WCMH) -- Parents who were concerned about the political affiliation of the advisory groups that the South Western City School Board joined last month revived concerns about another adviser to the board.

“Omar Tarazi is a very, very hot button issue," district parent Kyra Paul said. “He is known for being very politically charged and motivated in different ways. So by joining these organizations and by having that kind of legal counsel, I think it will 100% skew them (the board)."

Tarazi is an attorney who has billed the district $166,885 between January 2024 and March 31, 2025. Parents like Paul said they were concerned with the high price tag and the lack of transparency about his services. Parents also said they worry about the alleged increased time spent in executive session with Tarazi and his record in education. See previous coverage of the concerns in the video player above.

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Tarazi was first brought in by the district in January 2024. At $300 an hour, he quickly racked up payments over $20,000 per month for undisclosed services with the board.

"Engaging multiple perspectives has consistently benefited past and present school boards, providing a robust model for both checks and balances," district spokesperson Evan Debo previously told NBC4 about hiring Tarazi.

In July 2024, the board of education contracted Tarazi at $9,000 per month to serve on retainer. According to his contract, he can also bill up to $300 an hour for "nonroutine services." His contract expired in December with the opportunity to renew it.

Debo said the board renewed the contract when it expired as was permitted under the initial contact, which occurred outside of public meetings. He explained Tarazi's services are different than hiring an employee, so it did not have to be open to the public, and the district does the same for other procured services. Debo also addressed concerns about how much Tarazi is costing the district.

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"Since Tarazi Law has been assisting the district retroactive to 2024, the district has actually seen a savings of $191,373 in overall legal expenditures relative to the 2023 levels," Debo said.

District legal invoices corroborate Debo's statement, although the data is only up-to-date through the end of March.

Legal invoices do not detail what the services are for. According to his contract, he is required to attend all board meetings, draft documents and provide legal help as requested. Parents said that since hiring Tarazi, the board appears to spend more time in executive session. They pointed to comments he made at a Big Walnut School Board meeting, alleging he is using attorney-client privilege to work outside the public eye.

"The amount of time spent in executive session since he has been hired has skyrocketed, and there is a direct correlation between the time in executive session and the lack of transparency and accountability with our board as he represents them," parent Amanda Gooding said.

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However, Debo said the district is currently engaged in contract negotiations for more than 2,700 employees across three unions. He said longer executive sessions are part of the district adequately building union agreements that retain talent and provide quality education.

"All school boards across the state of Ohio use discretionary tools such as executive session time to consult with legal counsel and thoroughly review proposals in order to secure fair and competitive agreements that support both our staff and students," Debo said. "Legal representation for any district is both a negotiations standard and a necessary part of the process, with the specific reasons for the session identified on every board agenda and at every public meeting when enacted."

Parents said aside from the money, they were concerned with Tarazi not having a background in education law and with his advocacy for charter schools. According to public records, he has testified twice at the Statehouse in favor of charter schools, and he, his wife and his parents have all been involved in charter schools, from volunteer positions to serving as principal.

“If you want to hire staff, teachers, administrators for whatever reason, and they've got to have the merit and they've got to be qualified," Paul said. "Why wouldn't you seek the same for your legal counsel?”

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Tarazi did not respond to a request for comment by publication, but he spoke with NBC4 previously about not having a background in education law.

"A district has every kind of legal issue that comes up," Tarazi said. "There's a lot of different aspects of law, and I have a lot of experience in the area the board wants me to help them with."

Tarazi's contract will expire Dec. 31.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- A central Ohio fish and chips eatery is closing to make way for the return of Arthur Treacher's, a chain attempting a comeback after shuttering hundreds of U.S. locations years ago.

Marino's Seafood Fish & Chips at 1216 W. Fifth Ave. near Grandview Heights is closing as owners Harry and Rosemarie Kougendakis retire this month, Columbus Business First confirmed on Wednesday. The Kougendakis family has operated the eatery under the Marino's brand since 1992.

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However, the location will continue serving up hush puppies and fried fish as Arthur Treacher's moves in to take over. The ownership change is a homecoming for the Arthur Treacher's brand, which operated the West Fifth Avenue building as a location in the 1980s before it became Marino's.

• Marino's Seafood Fish & Chips at 1216 W. 5th Ave. near Grandview Heights is closing as owners Harry and Rosemarie Kougendakis retire. (Franklin County Auditor's Office)
• Marino's Seafood Fish & Chips at 1216 W. 5th Ave. near Grandview Heights is closing as owners Harry and Rosemarie Kougendakis retire. (Franklin County Auditor's Office)

The Kougendakis family told Columbus Business First that discussions between the brands began earlier this year and that many from the Marino's staff are staying to work under Arthur Treacher's. The new owners didn't respond to NBC4's request for comment.

The announcement comes after Arthur Treacher's began welcoming customers this spring to a reopened third location in Cleveland Heights at 13216 Cedar Road, which was home to an Arthur Treacher's from the 1970s to the 1990s. The chain had announced the eatery's relaunch last August, and held a grand opening celebration on April 1.

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"That store was always such a nostalgic location for the brand and the business, and it just came up in conversation with ownership and the opportunity was available for us," Christian Burden, Arthur Treacher's marketing director, told NBC4's Cleveland-area sister station last fall.

Arthur Treacher's launched in 1969 out of Columbus and offered fish and chips, fried chicken, clam chowder, hush puppies and more. The chain was named after the British actor who starred in a series of movies in the 1930s and in 1964's "Mary Poppins."

The ownership change is a homecoming for Arthur Treacher's, which operated the West Fifth Avenue building as a location in the 1980s. (Courtesy Photo/Arthur Treacher's Fish & Chips)

The fish and chips chain reached its peak in the late 1970s with more than 820 locations across the nation, but bounced between several owners. Lumara Foods of America purchased the chain in March 1982, then filed for bankruptcy four months later.

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Chapter 11 proceedings and additional ownership changes throughout the following decades dwindled the brand to two locations, which remain open today, also in northeast Ohio at 12585 Rockside Road in Garfield Heights and at 1833 State Road in Cuyahoga Falls.

All three Arthur Treacher's locations are open 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Stonewall Columbus Pride March and Festival returns this weekend, welcoming thousands of people downtown to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.

With police anticipating big crowds, Columbus Police Commander Scott Evers said safety is top of mind. 

"We started planning for this event pretty much the day after, you know, it ended last year," Evers said. "From that, you know, we just kind of figure out what we can improve from last year."

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Evers said when it comes to planning, the main focus is allocating resources. He said the department works with federal and state partners and gathers feedback from other cities.

"Some of the things we change is just a lot of it's just logistics," Evers said. "You know, how we can situate personnel so they can, you know, be better able to respond to different areas."

Officers will be out patrolling the area on foot, horseback, bikes and cruisers. Attendees can also expect to see cameras throughout the Pride festival and parade route.

"If you see something, say something," Evers said. "Cameras obviously make it easier for people to see more things. It's a force multiplier."

Pride on High viewing area to benefit Columbus LGBTQ+ groups

Pride Month comes amid rising political protests and tensions, and police are prepared for protests planned at the statehouse.

"We have dialogue officers that are here," Evers said. "They have existing relationships with all kinds of groups, as many groups as we can, and we focus on it is truly a relationship with a lot of groups, right? If people are protesting, I mean, it's their First Amendment right, and we are here to accommodate and welcome anybody that comes.”

This year, with warmer temperatures forecast for the weekend, police said there will be more water available and they'll be communicating with event organizers should they have to make changes due to weather.

"We continuously evaluate every event, like I said, that happens here, nationally, internationally and we adjust plans," Evers said. "We adjust plans, or we don't adjust plans, just depending on it."

List: 2025 Pride Month events, festivals in central Ohio

According to Columbus police, they have not received any credible threats to the Pride fest or protests this weekend.

The Pride Festival will run from 4-10 p.m. on June 13 and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on June 14 in Goodale Park, 120 W. Goodale St. The march will leave from the corner of Broad and High streets at 10:30 a.m. June 14. Participants will proceed north on High Street to the Buttles Avenue intersection. 

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Local leaders took to social media to share a short, but powerful message. The public service announcement featured the Franklin County Prosecutor’s office, Franklin County Sheriff’s office (FCSO) and the Columbus Division of Police (CPD). 

According to data from FCSO, during the last two years, more than 900 guns have been stolen from cars in Columbus. 

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Year-round, law enforcement agencies work to get guns off the street and make the community safer, but they can’t do that work alone. That is why they’re calling on gun owners to never leave guns unsecured in their cars.

“The amount of firearms that are stolen specifically from cars every year is extremely alarming,” Columbus Police Sgt. James Fuqua said.

This year alone, over 180 guns have been stolen from cars. That’s just the number reported; law enforcement believes the real number is much higher. 

“If you do possess a firearm, to please absolutely make sure that you report that because that gun could potentially end up in the hands of someone who is more than likely to engage in criminal conduct,” Fuqua said.

According to Fuqua, 75% of guns recovered from criminal suspects, especially involving violence crimes, are stolen. 

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“If someone steals a firearm, there's a high likelihood that that one gun will be used multiple times over in multiple crimes stemming from robberies, burglaries, or unfortunately, up to homicides,” Fuqua said.

Columbus police have seen multiple cases where one gun is linked to multiple crimes. Fuqua is urging people who legally own a gun to lock it up and not leave it in their car unsecured. 

“People break into cars looking for firearms and they're looking for firearms to commit crimes, specifically violent crime,” he said. “Make no mistake about it, if someone has the ability to get access to a firearm that they know that they don't own and possess, they're going to use that firearm in some type of crime.”

“I don't know what it will take to get people to understand the severity of leaving a firearm unsecured in your vehicle,” Eric Delbert, owner of L.E.P.D, a gun shop and firing range, said.

There are many lock box options that can be kept in either your home or your car. 

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“Under $40, you can get a pretty secure lock box like anything else,” Delbert said. “Given enough time, you can get into these, you can cut cables and so forth. But the bad guys, they're not having to go to that extent because so many people are leaving them in obvious places: the glovebox, the center console, under the front seat, all those places.”

Fuqua is urging those with guns to not leave them in their cars, especially if they’re going somewhere where guns are prohibited.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Many Ohioans have recently received texts or calls from people claiming to be the Ohio BMV or county courts.

Officials said these are scams, but if you don’t know what to look for, they can seem legitimate.

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The most recent text allegedly from the BMV said the recipient had an outstanding parking or traffic ticket and if they didn’t pay it immediately, their driver’s license could be suspended or they could be prosecuted.

Ohio State Registrar Charlie Norman said this BMV scam is happening nationwide. It comes shortly after many people received texts that were allegedly from the Ohio Turnpike about unpaid tolls.

“The BMV is never going to send you a text asking for personal information or demanding payment,” Norman said. “It's just not something we do.”

These are just a few examples of the most recent text scams and they always have that sense of urgency.

The Better Business Bureau of Central Ohio said scammers are getting more sophisticated.

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“I think we're so used to just like paying things from our phone that it's easy for us,” Lee Anne Lanigan with the Better Business Bureau said. “We think if we click the link, we're going to get more information and we're going to be able to take care of this right away.”

A woman in Delaware said she nearly fell victim to a scam over the phone.

Holly LeMay said someone called her claiming to be from the Delaware County courts, saying she missed jury duty and there was a warrant out for her arrest.

The person on the phone, claiming to be a sergeant, sent LeMay a website where she was asked to upload her driver’s license.

“It had my name, it had a court case on it, it looked very legitimate,” LeMay said. “It had, you know, the emblem of the federal government in the corner and it had court fees and find your court and your juror. It was over $12,000 that they wanted. At that point, I started panicking because I don't have $12,000 to throw into a bond.”

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LeMay ended up calling the Delaware County court system herself to check. She said they told her they’ve been dealing with these jury duty scammers for years, adding that the scam LeMay reported looked very legitimate.

“When I realized that it was a scam, after that, I felt incredibly raw,” she said. “I was very, just, scared. I felt dumb. I felt like I had just been completely bamboozled.”

Whether someone is texting or calling, saying you owe money, the BBB said you should always double-check the alleged government agency’s website to see if you actually missed jury duty or owe money on a parking ticket.

LeMay said she’s been warning everyone she sees about what almost happened to her.

“Just make sure you're careful and pay attention because it doesn't take long and they're getting really, really good at it,” she said.

The BBB said to avoid being scammed, keep in mind that a government agency will never text you, don’t trust an urgent message with links, verify a potential bill on your own and be on the lookout for mistakes.

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If you think you may have fallen victim to a text or call scam, the BBB said you should contact your bank and your local law enforcement agency to get this taken care of immediately.

For more tips from the Better Business Bureau on avoiding scams, visit the bureau’s website. The bureau also breaks down specifically how scammers target people about jury duty: read that information by clicking here.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- A potential safety issue here in Columbus is being mirrored across the United States.

NBC4 Investigates first told you about the Columbus Fire Union raising the alarm on a fire truck shortage: an aging fleet and a need for more funding.

Now, we've found that Columbus is one of many cities with this issue, and the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) is asking the Department of Justice to step in.

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IAFF is asking the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission to investigate fire and emergency vehicle manufacturers. NBC4 Investigates is told years-long wait times and increasing costs for fire trucks are hurting cities across the United States, including in Columbus, and the public is having to pay with their tax dollars and, potentially, with their safety.

"When we have equipment beyond its useful life, not only does that jeopardize our firefighters, EMTs and paramedics, it jeopardizes the people who we're trying to help in that moment where every second matters,” Columbus Fire Union President Steve Stein said. 

The IAFF said the issue was highlighted by the Palisades fire in California.

“In the Palisades fire in L.A., the most expensive fire in the history of the country, we know that there were about 100 pieces of fire apparatus that were out of service,” IAFF General President Edward Kelly said. 

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In Columbus, the fire union said a funding shortfall has led to many trucks on the road being past their life expectancy and without any change, the issue is set to get worse.

NBC4 Investigates has reported that the union said CFD has been under budget by $7 -$11 million for the past ten years and this has led to the division being very low on trucks. This shortage, combined with Columbus’s growth, has increased call volume and put added strain on trucks already past their life cycles.

“I've been in the fire service as a whole just under 20 years, and, you know, I remember when I started, you could get a fully equipped engine for about $370,000. You can barely get an ambulance for that now,” Stein said. 

Now, the IAFF is hoping a request on the federal level might bring that change.

“Family-owned fire truck manufacturing companies throughout America were bought out by private equity groups trying to monopolize the industry, so now what we've seen happen is things like wait times for a truck to be delivered are now as long as four and a half years,” Kelly said. 

In a letter to the DOJ and FTC, the IAFF writes: “We write to urge the antitrust division of the Department of Justice (“DOJ”) and the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) to investigate and take action against consolidation in fire and emergency vehicle manufacturers.”

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The letter states that the consolidation trend of these companies that sell parts and trucks has led to skyrocketing prices over the last ten years and a backlog that means quadrupled wait times for cities to get the trucks they spend millions on.

“These apparatus manufacturers and their suppliers and some of these groups that are controlling that supply chain need to be held accountable,” Stein said. 

“Not only are the firefighters being put in jeopardy because of these delays and costs, the taxpayers are footing the bill as well,” Kelly said. 

In the letter to the DOJ, the IAFF cites a range of cities that have felt the impact, from Evanston, Illinois, to Atlanta, Georgia. Read the full letter below. 

FINAL2025513LettertoFTCandDOJreFiretrucks_1431113177Download

NBC4 reached out to the manufacturers listed in the letter but has not received a response.

COSHOCTON, Ohio (WCMH) – The suspect in the fatal shooting of a popular southeast Columbus shopkeeper last month was arrested in Coshocton on Thursday.

Joshua Norfleet, 21, was arrested without incident by the U.S. Marshals’ Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team.

According to the Marshal's Service, the Columbus SOFAST division found Norfleet in the area of Ohio State Route 83 and Township Road 210.

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Norfleet is charged with murder in the May 25 shooting death of Jehad Alzaben, 46, the owner of Livingston Market for nearly 30 years.

In addition to SOFAST, officers were assisted by the Northern Ohio U.S. Marshals Taskforce, Coshocton County Sheriff’s Department, Holmes County Sheriff’s Department, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

Norfleet is being held at Coshocton County Jail. Online court records do not list a court appearance scheduled for him.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Red, White & BOOM!, the biggest fireworks show in the Midwest, will be even bigger, better and more spectacular in 2025.

After nearly 45 years, a modern twist is coming to the Downtown Columbus celebration. BOOM! organizers have announced that, in addition to traditional fireworks, a drone show will entertain viewers as the night's “opening act.”

At 10 p.m., on July 3, 216 drones will lift off to dazzle a crowd of more than 400,000 fans with a fascinating synchronized display. Local drone show company, NiteBrite, will handle the performance. The added element is thanks to G&J Pepsi, one of the event's presenting sponsors, in honor of the beverage bottler's 100th anniversary.

NBC4's coverage of the event begins at 4 p.m. on First at 4. Viewers can watch the entire show starting at 8 p.m. on NBC4, nbc4i.com and our new TV streaming app, NBC4 Columbus.

BOOM! is the largest single-day event in Columbus and would not be possible without all the volunteers, vendors, and sponsors, NBC4, WNCI and G&J Pepsi, which have invested in the event.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Two teenage boys have been charged with multiple felonies after a confrontation with police Wednesday afternoon near a south Columbus park.

Columbus police responded to a call of shots fired near Lincoln Pool and the Barack Community Center at 3:10 p.m. Officers on bicycles located three teenagers in a parking lot. When encountering them, a 15-year-old suspect immediately ran away. He was arrested and police said they recovered a reported stolen firearm that he threw near the pool while running away.

The 15-year-old has been charged with carrying a concealed weapon, receiving stolen property, tampering with evidence, and obstructing official business.

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A 16-year-old boy that stayed in the parking lot ignored commands given by officers and crouched near a parked vehicle, according to police. When an officer approached, he allegedly showed he had a gun, and the officer shot him. Police said the officer that shot the teen has been with CPD for two years.

Police did not release the identity of the officer, citing Marsy's Law.

CPD said officers rendered medical aid before the teen was taken to a hospital in what was described as stable condition. The boy was charged with carrying a concealed weapon, tampering with evidence, and obstructing official business.

The third suspect stayed in the parking lot and complied with police. Officers recovered a BB gun from that teen, a 15-year-old. Police said no charges have been filed against him at this time.

The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is leading the investigation.

Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther called for the community to step up and help prevent incidents such as this.

“This is a place where we need more cooperation and closer coordination with juvenile court and with the judges, because we need to hold parents accountable," he said. "We need to hold kids accountable because this is the danger, when you have young people that are carrying guns and committing crimes, oftentimes what happens is those escalate the severity of the crimes.”

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – While Andrew Chapman has been missing for over 18 years, many central Ohio residents have seen his face on the news, social media or a billboard on West Broad Street.

The missing man, who went by the nickname Andy, vanished from his home in the Hilltop area in December 2006. Over the nearly two decades he has been missing, his family has kept his story alive, hoping someone will come forward with information that will help solve the case. 

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That effort will continue on Saturday, when Andy Chapman’s family will march the streets of west Columbus alongside other residents with missing loved ones. The demonstration will mark the second annual “Andy Chapman March for the Missing,” an event created by his family to raise awareness for unsolved cases in the state.

“Unfortunately, when it comes to missing persons cases, a lot of the legwork is on the families, so I believe that's why this is important to raise awareness for my brother's case,” said Andy Chapman’s sister, Aimee Chapman. “We're going on 19 years of searching for him. If you've had a loved one that's been missing for two weeks, six months, 10 years, 20 years, this event is for you.”

The event will kick off on Saturday at noon at Hillcrest Baptist Church, located at 2480 W. Broad St. A prayer service will be held before attendees walk westbound on Broad Street, with posters of their missing loved one in hand. 

After an approximately 15-minute walk, the group will head back to the church, where there will be pizza, snacks and resources available for the families of missing people. A victim’s advocate and a representative with the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation will be in attendance, according to Aimee Chapman. 

Tables will also be set up featuring flyers and posters of missing people. Aimee Chapman said attendees may bring their own handouts to spread awareness about a missing person’s case. 

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Anyone is welcome to come to the event; attendees do not have to have a relation to a missing person or live in the Columbus area, according to Aimee Chapman. She said last year’s march saw a “great” turnout, including attendance from the family members of missing people Danny Fout and Tyler Davis. 

• Families marching in west Columbus during the first March for the Missing, which took place last June.
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• Flyers and posters set out at last year's event.
• The family of Danny Fout, who has been missing since 2019, at the 2024 March for the Missing.

“Getting to know a lot of different family members of missing [people], we've developed this group of family and friends that work together, that we can talk to and rely on each other,” Aimee Chapman said. 

The March for the Missing will be held rain or shine, Aimee Chapman said. If the walk portion of the event is cancelled due to the weather, other planned activities will still take place in the church. 

Anyone with information on Andy Chapman's disappearance may contact Columbus police at 614-645-4545 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers’ anonymous tip line at 614-461-8477.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Those heading to the Stonewall Columbus Pride March this weekend can reserve their spot at a special viewing area that benefits central Ohio LGBTQ+ organizations.

Boasted as the ultimate parade watching experience, Pride on High is a ticketed event allowing guests to view the march from Parlay Sports Club and Kitchen, Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse, or the recently opened El Vaquero. The event is the only one in the Short North offering live entertainment, food and beverages during the parade, along with shade and private restrooms.

In its 15th year, Pride on High was created by organizer Mike Maly and his husband, who noticed in 2010 that nearly all of the restaurants in the Short North were closed during the Pride march. Watch a previous NBC4 report on Pride on High in the video player above.

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"All of the restaurants were closed for the Pride parade, and my husband and I actually went down to Hyde Park and there was a high-top table, an umbrella and two chairs, and we sat there," Maly said. "That following Monday, I called them and said, 'Would you consider being open?' And that was the start."

Their first year, Pride on High just welcomed 25 guests. But the event has steadily grown, from about 440 attendees right before the COVID-19 pandemic to more than 770 last year.

Tickets to Pride on High cost $75 per person, with every dollar benefiting the LGBTQ+ organization of your choosing: Stonewall Columbus, Kaleidoscope Youth Center, Equality Ohio, or Mozaic by Equitas Health, a community center for transgender, gender nonconforming, and nonbinary Ohioans.

"The mission is to bring the Columbus community together and provide funding for LGBTQ+ youth and community initiatives that, in turn, provides resources for a safe, educated and healthy future," Maly said. "Each and every one of these organizations, I know exactly where every dollar goes, and it's not wasted."

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NBC4 will be streaming the march from Pride on High, with anchor Colleen Marshall hosting alongside Columbus drag queen Virginia West and Amber Nicole, who will be performing two songs before the parade.

Maly said this year, "It's important for everyone to be seen, to be heard, to celebrate who we are" in the wake of federal measures and legislation at the Ohio Statehouse that opponents deem "anti-LGBTQ+." Maly said the rhetoric is having a tangible effect on Pride on High, as sales are down 50% compared to this time last year.

"I think with the political environment and everything that's going on out there, it's impacting the sales," Maly said. "This has been very tough this year. I've worked for over 30 years and making people's lives better and making sure that kids have a better future, and that's what keeps me going."

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While ticket sales may be down, Maly said donations to operate Pride on High are higher than they've ever been before.

"That tells me that there are people out there that truly do believe in who we are, what we are, what we bring to the world, and this is ridiculous what we're going through right now," Maly said. "Hopefully, we'll get some of the folks to come and join the party."

Learn more about Pride on High and purchase tickets here.

GROVE CITY, Ohio (WCMH) -- A Grove City dentist has announced his retirement months after a patient became unresponsive during a procedure and later died.

"After much soul-searching, I have made the difficult decision to retire from dentistry, effective immediately," Dr. Scott Schumann said in a statement. "The events of the past few months, following the tragic passing of one of our patients, have weighed heavily on me both mentally and emotionally."

Schumann owns Grove City Dental along Gantz Road. He said he will work to assist employees with a smooth transition to other opportunities and will work to transfer patients to other practitioners.

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"I can't thank them enough for their continued trust in me and for their unwavering support during this incredibly challenging time," he said. "It's meant the world to me. I am grateful beyond words. It has been a genuine honor to serve the Grove City community."

According to an incident summary, Grove City police responded to a 911 call on Feb. 13 at Grove City Dental and found Michael Beesler unresponsive while Schumann was administering CPR. Watch previous coverage in the player above.

Beesler, 61, was hooked up to a defibrillator, and police assisted in life-saving measures until medics arrived. He was taken to a hospital for treatment and died three days later.

The Franklin County Coroner's Office said Beesler died of anoxic brain injury due to sudden prolonged cardiac arrest and complications of hypertensive cardiovascular disease. Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation was also listed as a "significant condition." Beesler's cause of death was ruled natural.

Ohio eLicense records online show that both Schumann's dentist and moderate sedation permit licenses are inactive, with both listed as "surrendered."

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) - Meet Lucille! She is up for adoption at the Franklin County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center.

Lucille is a 1-year-old Pit Bull mix who has been at the shelter since mid-May, according to shelter staff. This pup loves to play; she is full of energy and affection.

Lucille is also sweet and loves meeting people. She's recently had some introductions with other dogs that have gone well, but according to Allison Linkous, adoption counselor, it is recommended that she meet with any other dogs in the home before adoption.

Lucille (Franklin County Dog Shelter)

"She actually got to meet a community group of Girl Scouts, and she did really good with everybody," Linkous said.

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Right now, Lucille knows "sit," but she is a puppy and would probably be able to learn more tricks and commands, with the help of using treats as a reward. She would make a great dog for someone who is active and loves to hike, but also enjoys her chill time filled with belly rubs and cuddling.

"I think that she would make a great addition to someone's home," Linkous said. "She is just a happy-go-lucky puppy."

If you would like to meet with Lucille, she is available at the shelter at 4340 Tamarack Blvd. in Columbus. For additional adoptable dogs, you can view the list on the dog shelter's website.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) - This weekend is full of festivals, sports and more in the Columbus area. From the annual Stonewall Columbus Pride March and Festival, to 614 Day and the Marion Strawberry Festival. Here are things to see and do this weekend in central Ohio.

Stonewall Columbus Pride March and Festival

Downtown Columbus, June 13-14

• The Stonewall Columbus Pride March and Festival returns this weekend, welcoming thousands Downtown to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. This weekend’s festival begins at 4 p.m. on Friday at Goodale Park and runs until 10 p.m. The celebration continues at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday with Stonewall’s Pride march at Broad and High streets.

Heart of Grove City Wine and Arts Festival

3359 Part St. in Grove City, June 13-14

• Enjoy tastings from wineries and view several pieces of artwork in Grove City. The festival is celebrating its 15th year and draws 30,000 wine and art enthusiasts from all over the state and beyond.

Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival

Gahanna’s Creekside District, June 13-15

• The three-day festival is expected to bring in thousands of attendees of all ages and showcase 30 national, regional and local blues and jazz performers.

2025 Special Olympics Ohio Summer Games 

Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium, June 13-15

• More than 2,400 athletes and 650 coaches from 87 local, community-based Special Olympics organizations will participate this weekend. Opening ceremonies will begin inside Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium, with events happening throughout several venues at The Ohio State University.

Animate! Columbus 2025

Greater Columbus Convention Center, June 13-15

• Enjoy a weekend celebrating all things animated, featuring beloved characters, creators, and industry luminaries.

Picnic with the Pops

Columbus Commons, June 14 at 8 p.m.

• Experience the music of “A Boy Band Symphony” this weekend. The show celebrates the timeless hits of the iconic boy bands featuring Jeff Timmons of 98 Degrees, Erik-Michael Estrada of O-Town and Chris Kirkpatrick of *NSYNC. Tickets are on sale now.

Picnic With The Pops Andy Chapman March for the Missing

Hillcrest Baptist Church, June 14 at noon

• Join families with missing loved ones for the 2nd annual walk. Participants will unite with friends, advocates and the public to raise awareness for Ohio’s missing loved ones.

Worthington Arts Festival

Village Green Park, June 14-15

• Bringing in more than 20,000 visitors annually, the Worthington Arts Festival has been ranked as one of the top 200 arts festivals in the nation by Sunshine Artist magazine. View a variety of fine arts, crafts and much more.

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Derby Hill in Big Run Park, June 14 at 10 a.m.

• 35 entries will compete in three divisions, with the champions representing the Columbus area in the All-American Championships on July 19th in Akron. This year’s field features one World Champion, five All-Americans, 20 rookies, and competitors from all over central Ohio. Racing starts at 10 a.m.

Marion Strawberry Festival

Marion County Fairgrounds, June 14-15

• The annual festival celebrating all things strawberries is returning to Marion this weekend. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., enjoy fresh strawberries, arts and crafts, live entertainment and much more. Admission is $6 (cash only) and kids 2 and under are free.

614 Day Celebration

Franklinton Land-Grant and surrounding streets, June 14 from noon to 9 p.m.

• The 10th anniversary celebrating all things Columbus is back on June 14 for 614 Day. Enjoy a variety of events and fun at Land-Grant Brewing and other streets in the area.

Scioto Mile Park and skyline, Downtown Columbus, Ohio, USA. (Photo by: Jumping Rocks/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) Crew vs. Vancouver

Lower.com Field, June 14 at 7:30 p.m.

• The Columbus Crew face the Vancouver Whitecaps in a home matchup at Lower.com Field.

Farmers Markets across central Ohio

Central Ohio boasts numerous farmers markets throughout the area offering locally grown produce, art, clothing, and more. Click here to find when and where local markets are selling near you below.

WAVERLY, Ohio (WCMH) -- Several thousand marijuana enthusiasts will descend upon Waverly next month for the second annual Stargazer Cannabis Festival. It may also be the last.

“We're very sad about that fact, and it would be very ironic that this festival was conceived out of a celebration for legalization, and then ironically, the law will make it illegal," festival organizer Chad Thompson said.

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Thompson is concerned about changes to cannabis laws in consideration at the state and federal level that would minimize or eliminate the three-day cannabis festival. Ohio lawmakers have weighed multiple changes to Ohio's recreational marijuana laws, which passed in 2023 with 57% of the vote. Federally, a provision currently included in the "Big Beautiful Bill" would prohibit most products that use hemp-derived THC.

Under the new federal proposal, the U.S. would redefine which hemp products are legal. Hemp was redefined in President Donald Trump's first term to mean cannabis that has minimal THC levels, 0.3% or lower. People have used this definition to synthetically manufacture cannabis products that are both legal and intoxicating. The budget draft would ban those hemp products, making ingestible hemp federally illegal again.

"There is an effort to eliminate that segment of the hemp market, which would really give a big hit to hemp businesses and us, as a cannabis festival, also would be greatly impacted by that," Thompson said. "It would take a big portion of our vendors and make them illegal.”

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Thompson said changes to cannabis law would significantly harm Ohio's emerging marijuana industry, which is on track to be a $2 billion market. Among higher taxes and a decreased legal maximum THC level, legislators have also considered a ban on ingesting cannabis in public spaces, which would largely prevent the festival from taking place.

Thompson said if the state changes cannabis laws, Stargazer Festival will have to consider relocating to a "friendlier state," taking its business with it. The festival will nearly double the population of Waverly for the weekend, and Thompson said visitors are coming from 35 states.

“This festival this year will cost us close to $200,000 to organize and put on, and that's all revenue that is being filtered in the state down through porta potties, tent rentals, local performers," Thompson said.

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Thompson said he does not want to move the festival, saying it would be a "sad day" if they had to leave their home state. Stargazer began as a celebration for Ohio activists after voters successfully legalized recreational marijuana. As part of the celebratory mission, many festival events involve giveaways for festival attendees, including a $1,000 bonus for five randomly selected cannabis judges and a giveaway dream cannabis wedding officiated by Afroman.

Thompson said as this July 25-27 may be the last festival, people should get their tickets ahead of time, as they will likely be sold out at the door. He said he and other advocates are prepared to rally and adjust, but hope the laws will stay favorable.

"Even after legalization, the fight is not done to ensure the best possible cannabis laws on the books for the greater good of the people currently and into the future," Thompson said.

PATASKALA, Ohio (WCMH) – A black bear was spotted in Licking County for the first time in more than 20 years on Tuesday morning.

The bear was observed in a field just east of Pataskala, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Outside of the Tuesday sighting, the last confirmed report of a black bear in Licking County was in 2003. Before that, five black bears were spotted in the county dating to 1993, when the agency began documenting sightings. 

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The species is considered endangered in Ohio, which has an estimated population of about 50-100 black bears. The state saw a significant decline in black bears in the mid-1800s due to unregulated hunting and extensive deforestation, according to the department.

Black bears are most commonly found in “eastern forested areas” in the state, according to ODNR. Most of the sightings are of young male bears roaming large distances in search of females, who tend to establish a territory and stay there.

On Monday morning, just days before the Licking County sighting, a black bear was spotted in Guernsey County. The bear was seen on Country Club Road moving toward Byesville, according to the Guernsey County sheriff’s Facebook page. 

Sightings in Guernsey County are more common than in Licking County. Guernsey has seen 30 confirmed sightings since 1993, including two last year. There have been "several other" confirmed reports so far in 2025, mostly in the northeast and southeast portions of the state, according to the ODNR. A spokesperson said the department typically does not compile the exact number of sightings until the end of a given year.

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In Ohio, sightings of the animal are most common from late May through early July, the state department said. Black bears are the only species of bear found in the state. 

The ODNR recommends residents who live in an area with a recent sighting keep their trash inside a garage, remove bird feeders, keep pet food inside, clean grease from outdoor grills and pick any fruit from their yard to avoid attracting the species. 

If an individual does encounter a black bear, they should remain calm, avoid eye contact and slowly back away, according to the state agency. Residents should not run or climb trees, because these actions may provoke a chase. If a bear does begin to approach, the department suggests people raise their hands above their head to appear larger, and clap or shout to scare it away. It is illegal to shoot or injure a black bear in Ohio.

Of the about 750,000 black bears in North America, the species kills fewer than one person per year on average, according to the North American Bear Center.

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“Generally, black bears are non-aggressive and prefer to flee from the area as soon as they are aware of your presence,” the ODNR’s website reads. 

The Ohio Division of Wildlife is monitoring sightings and will respond if a black bear becomes a nuisance or public safety concern. Sightings can be reported to the division on its website or by calling 800-945-3543. 

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Columbus has become a second home for thousands of refugees fleeing countries included in President Donald Trump's travel ban, many of whom now worry about family left behind.

"It is painful to see doors close on those who have already faced so much,” central Ohio refugee agency employee Dianna Russell said.

Russell is the director of institutional advancement, marketing and communications for central Ohio refugee resettlement agency Ethiopian Tewahedo Social Services, a Columbus nonprofit that helps refugees and immigrants from more than 90 countries establish roots in central Ohio. According to state data, nearly 1,300 refugees moved to Columbus in 2024. More than 1,000 came from countries that are fully or partially banned indefinitely.

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Effective June 9, Trump banned new arrivals from Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. Citizens of Burundi, Cuba, Loas, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela are severely limited.

People who were granted asylum or refugee status before the ban took effect are not included in the ban. Refugees and asylum seekers differ from immigrants, although they may share similar experiences depending on their situations. Refugees and asylum seekers ask for protection because of dangers in their home countries, and are approved to seek safety in the U.S. after lengthy federal background checks.

Russell said that although the restrictions do not suspend refugee resettlement, they could limit or stop reunification with family members still abroad.

"Clients who have worked hard to build a future in the United States now fear that loved ones will not be able to join them," Russell said. "Others who had hoped to bring aging parents, spouses or children to safety may now face indefinite delays or denials.”

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In 2024, Ohio accepted refugees from 11 of the 19 countries under full or partial bans, primarily from the Republic of the Congo and Afghanistan. In Columbus, refugees mostly came from Somalia (301 refugees arriving in 2024), Afghanistan (294) and the Republic of the Congo (246). 

Trump provided reasons for banning entry from each country. Trump said Somalia is banned for not having appropriate screening measures and a lack of centralized control, Afghanistan is banned for the Taliban's influence and the Republic of the Congo is banned for high rates of overstaying visas. Russell said the reasons for the travel bans are the same reasons many refugees came to the U.S. in the first place.

“The emotional toll is especially heavy for those with family members still in areas affected by violence, conflict or humanitarian crises," Russell said.

Columbus has the second-largest Somali population in the U.S., with an estimated 60,000 Somali immigrants. Most Somali-born Columbus residents are refugees, escaping a 30-year civil war compounded by natural disasters.

Somalia was also included in Trump's 2017 travel ban. At the time, Somali refugee Amina Ibrahim told NBC4 that her 5-year-old son was stuck in a refugee camp in Uganda, and the travel ban prevented him from reuniting with family members.

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Haitian immigrants are also included, just months after making headlines when Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance helped perpetuate rumors about Haitian residents in Springfield on the campaign trail. City, county and state officials have repeatedly said the claims were false and unfounded. 

Columbus residents have been vocal in supporting immigrants and refugees, with hundreds rallying Tuesday night to oppose ICE raids. Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther's office said the city "strongly opposes" the travel ban, believing it "targets" individuals based on their country of origin or religion.

"These policies do not reflect our values and undermine the strength that diversity brings to our communities," Ginther's office said. "We remain committed to our values, to being a welcoming city and to protecting the well-being and safety of everyone who lives in our city."

Other elected officials disagree. Speaking to Fox News, Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) said the ban will help protect Americans.

"These countries are basically failed nations, they have no ability to vet who's leaving their country," Moreno said. "We're not going to put American citizens in jeopardy."

NBC4 asked Moreno, a Colombian immigrant, about these comments and about the ban's effect on American-born Ohioans and the 5.3% of the state who were born abroad. Moreno did not respond to the inquiry.