Columbus police have identified the man who was fatally stabbed last week in the Weinland Park neighborhood. Authorities say officers responded to a reported fight shortly before 1 a.m. on August 22 in the 1200 block of Summit Street. The victim, 24-year-old Petes K. Laurent-Baptisma, sustained multiple stab wounds and was transported to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries two days later. The Franklin County Coroner’s Office subsequently ruled the death a homicide.
Police said no arrests have been made in connection with the stabbing. The other individual involved in the altercation is known to authorities but has not been publicly identified. The case is expected to be presented to a Franklin County grand jury.
According to charging documents, Laurent-Baptisma had allegedly struck his live-in girlfriend prior to being stabbed. The stabbing, carried out by an “unknown black male,” left Laurent-Baptisma with three wounds—two to the lower right forearm and one to the upper chest. A witness, the victim’s sister, told investigators she observed the domestic violence but did not see the stabbing itself.
Detectives emphasized that Laurent-Baptisma had already been charged with domestic violence and assault before his death.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Columbus Police Homicide Unit at (614) 645-4730 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-TIPS (8477). Detective Collins is leading the investigation, assisted by Detective Johnson.
This tragic incident highlights the dangers of domestic disputes escalating into deadly violence and underscores the importance of community vigilance and reporting.
