Authorities have identified the two men involved in a suspected murder-suicide that took place Wednesday afternoon on Cleveland’s west side.
According to the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner, 68-year-old Thomas Overall was shot and killed while mowing his lawn on Munn Road around 1:30 p.m. His neighbor, 66-year-old Bryan Hurt, is believed to have been the shooter. After the incident, police say Hurt drove roughly a mile and a half to the Groth Memorial Scenic Overlook, where he died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The incident has left the West Park community stunned, with neighbors describing Overall as a kind and faithful man.
“He was out mowing his lawn,” said Vic Evin, a friend and neighbor. “This neighbor had a history of mental problems, didn’t like him mowing his lawn, and drove by and shot him. It’s a tremendous loss. The only thing I can take comfort in is he was a devout Christian.”
Overall worked for Rock Entertainment Group, which released a statement expressing grief over the loss of their colleague.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing of our valued Team Member, Tom,” the company said in a statement. “He was a compassionate and dedicated colleague whose absence will be felt both within our organization and in his community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends as they mourn.”
Cleveland police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.