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Article Summary
Cincinnati police have arrested Willie Gordon in connection with the Cincinnati fatal shooting that claimed the life of 31-year-old Tekeya McCollum last December. McCollum, a mother of five, was found shot in a stairwell of the Park Eden apartment building in Walnut Hills. Gordon was charged with murder, evidence tampering and weapons offenses. McCollum’s family and the Walnut Hills community have expressed grief and concern about crime trends, and law enforcement continues its investigation.
Arrest in Cincinnati fatal shooting
Cincinnati authorities say the Cincinnati fatal shooting of a local mother is now the subject of criminal charges.
Police arrested a suspect nearly two months after the deadly incident in Walnut Hills. Additionally, the arrest brings new developments in a case that shocked the city and devastated a family just before the holidays.
Cincinnati police announced the arrest of 47-year-old Willie Gordon in connection with the Cincinnati fatal shooting of Tekeya McCollum, 31. Moreover, Gordon was taken into custody by the Cincinnati Police Homicide Unit on Feb. 9, 2026. Officers charged him with murder, tampering with evidence and weapons under disability.
McCollum was found shot on Dec. 23, 2025 around 6:30 p.m. inside a stairwell at the Park Eden apartment building on Park Avenue in Walnut Hills. Responding officers administered aid, but McCollum was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators say Gordon is suspected of moving her body into the stairwell and removing the firearm from the scene before police arrived. Court papers list evidence tampering alongside the murder charge.
Family members say McCollum was a devoted mother of five. Her brother described the difficulty of explaining her death to her children and the broader pain the family has endured.
Community reaction and safety concerns
Residents of Walnut Hills and neighbors at the Park Eden complex expressed concern after the shooting. Moreover, McCollum’s death occurred days after another shooting within the same building, thereby raising questions about safety measures in the area.
Meanwhile, witnesses in the building reported hearing a struggle on the fourth floor followed by a gunshot and a scream on the night McCollum was killed. As a result, that account has informed key parts of the police investigation.
In response, community leaders and family advocates issued statements urging improved safety and security protocols at the apartment complex. Additionally, some residents called on the Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority to reassess safety measures following the tragedy.
Legal proceedings and next steps
Gordon remains held without bond at the Hamilton County Justice Center. Prosecutors have not yet set a trial date. The murder charge carries the possibility of life imprisonment under Ohio law. Additional hearings will determine pretrial motions and whether prosecutors may pursue further charges.
Police have encouraged anyone with information about the case to contact the Cincinnati Police Homicide Unit. Law enforcement reiterated that the case remains active and that tips could assist in resolving unanswered questions.
FAQs
When did the Cincinnati fatal shooting occur?
The shooting occurred on Dec. 23, 2025, at about 6:30 p.m. inside the Park Eden building in Walnut Hills.
Who was the victim in the Cincinnati fatal shooting?
The victim was 31-year-old Tekeya McCollum, a mother of five children.
Who was arrested in connection with the shooting?
Willie Gordon, 47, was arrested and charged with murder, tampering with evidence and weapons under disability.
What charges does the suspect face?
Gordon faces one murder count, two evidence-tampering counts, and one weapons charge, all related to the shooting and alleged actions after the incident.
What has the community said about the incident?
Residents and family members expressed grief and concern over safety in the Walnut Hills area and urged stronger protective measures at local housing facilities.
