Columbus, OH – In a tragic turn of events, Beverly Barnes, 59, and her husband James Barnes, 55, were found dead in their home on Parma Avenue on the Southwest Side of Columbus. The incident, which occurred on Sunday afternoon, has been classified by police as a murder-suicide.
According to the Columbus Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire in the 1100 block of Parma Avenue. Upon arrival, they discovered Beverly Barnes unresponsive, suffering from a gunshot wound. Medics from the Columbus Division of Fire pronounced her dead at the scene at 2:07 p.m. James Barnes, also found with gunshot injuries, was still alive when police arrived. He was rushed to OhioHealth Grant Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at 2:56 p.m.
Authorities believe James Barnes fatally shot Beverly before turning the gun on himself. The exact motive behind the incident is still under investigation, but police are treating it as a domestic violence case. Neighbors described the couple as quiet, noting they mostly kept to themselves.
The heartbreaking news has left the community in shock. On Facebook, friends and acquaintances have expressed their sorrow and condolences. Yalona Williams shared, “I can’t believe that just 7 years ago I lost one sister to violence, and now I’ve lost another sister in the same way.” Another mourner, Nita Carsten, wrote, “So very sorry for your loss. My niece worked with Beverly at Hospice. She also took care of my sister while she was dying. I have only heard good things about her and what a nice person she was.”
The Columbus Police Department is urging anyone with information about the incident or the couple’s history to come forward. This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the severe impact of domestic violence, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness, intervention, and support for those in danger. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of Beverly and James Barnes, hoping for answers to the questions that remain.