Suspects sought in deadly nightclub shooting
Cincinnati police said they are making progress in their investigation into a nightclub shooting while city leaders Monday encouraged more witnesses to come forward to help find those responsible for the gun battle inside the crowded club that left one man dead, 16 people injured and more questions about safety in public gathering spots.
Police Chief Eliot Isaac said investigators believe there were multiple shooters based on the number of shots fired in the melee early Sunday morning in the Cameo club, a popular hiphop music spot near the Ohio river east of downtown Cincinnati. Police estimated there were more than 20 shots, sending club patrons diving to the floor or scrambling away from a chaotic and terrifying scene.
“We’re gathering information ... we’re making some progress,” Isaac said after giving city council members an update on the investigation. He declined to say whether police have identified possible suspects, but said police weren’t actively looking for anyone.”
The FBI and federal firearms agents are assisting Cincinnati police.
Isaac said the initial investigation indicates a dispute in the bar escalated into a gun fight around 1:30 a.m., with shots fired by “several individuals.” He said no club security footage of the shooting has emerged.
He said “a number” of people
have contacted police with tips or information, including a person who came forward Sunday evening to report having been shot, raising the total number injured to 16 besides the 27-year-old man slain. Two of the 16 injured were in critical condition Monday. Three other people remained hospitalized in stable condition.
Isaac said some of the wounded could be key witnesses. City officials urged potentially reluctant witnesses to help, saying they would be protected.
Crime witnesses afraid to testify for fear of retribution have been a problem in some past Cincinnati cases.
Isaac said the nightclub had metal detectors, or wands, but wasn’t required to by law. Four police officers were working offduty security details in the club parking lot, but he emphasized the club provides its own security inside.
He said Cameo club operator Julian “Jay” Rodgers has been co-operating with investigators.
The veteran Cincinnati area
entertainment operator has pledged to “do everything in our power to make sure the monsters that did this are caught and brought to justice.” Rodgers also said the club will remain closed until police and internal investigations are completed.
In Cincinnati, four candles illuminated a makeshift memorial outside the club on a foggy Monday morning. A poster dedicated to O’Bryan Spikes, the man killed, said “R.I.P. Lucky” and “Father Son Uncle Brother.”