This week’s “Crime of the Week” concerns a Homicide that took place in the Driving Park area of Columbus. On Tuesday, February 9, 2010, at 7:40pm, Mr. Billy Howard was shoveling the sidewalk next to his residence at 982 Bulen Ave. Mr. Howard was confronted by an unknown person(s) who robbed him of the belongings he had on his person. During the encounter, Mr. Howard suffered a single gunshot wound to the upper body, and died of the wound at 8:28pm in OSU East Hospital.

Crime Stoppers has posted a reward of up to $2,000.00 for any information received by March 10, 2010, leading to the arrest and/or indictment of the persons responsible for this crime. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS (8477) or e-mail us at www.stopcrime.org. You can text a tip to “CRIMES” 274637, key word CMH.

Crime Stoppers does not use Caller ID or record telephone conversations. A special coding system protects the identity of the caller. Crime Stoppers also takes calls from persons with information about any felony. Information leading to the arrest and/or indictment of a felony suspect could qualify the caller for a reward as determined by the Crime Stoppers Board of Directors. For more information on Central Ohio Crime Stoppers, visit our website at www.stopcrime.org or call Crime Stoppers toll free at 1-877-645-TIPS (8477).

Crime Stoppers is a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization. Reward money comes from private individuals, businesses, and foundations that see Crime Stoppers as an integral tool in the community’s fight against crime. Tax-deductible donations can be sent to Central Ohio Crime Stopper’s, Inc., and P.O. BOX 16038, COLUMBUS, OH 43216-6038.

Watch for the depiction of each “Crime of the Week” during newscasts on WCMH NBC 4, Sunday morning 7a.m., 9 a.m. and at 6 p.m., as well as Monday 12 Noon. Also watch for the depiction to be aired on WBNS 10TV and News Center ABC 6.