A tragic series of events in Ohio City has left three people dead, including the alleged shooter, in what authorities are investigating as a murder-suicide.
Police Respond to Gruesome Call
The Van Wert County Sheriff’s Department was alerted around 8 a.m. on Monday after receiving a disturbing call. A man reported that his friend had confessed to killing his girlfriend and another man before threatening to end his own life. Deputies quickly acted, gathering additional information from the caller and other acquaintances of the suspect to locate the involved individuals.
The investigation led authorities to a residence in Ohio City, where they conducted a welfare check. Upon entry, deputies discovered two deceased individuals, both with gunshot wounds. The victims were identified as 29-year-old Shelby M. Coats of Ohio City and 30-year-old Andrew C. Lause of Delphos.
Suspect Located at a Separate Residence
The suspect, 51-year-old Paul A. Boldman of Ohio City, was not present at the initial crime scene. However, officers tracked his vehicle to another home. After securing a warrant, they entered the residence and found Boldman alive but critically injured from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Emergency responders transported Boldman to Ohio Health Van Wert Hospital, but he was later pronounced dead.
Agencies Collaborate in Investigation
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation was called in to assist with processing the crime scenes, ensuring a thorough and unbiased investigation. Additional support was provided by the Van Wert County Coroner’s Office and Troopers from the Van Wert Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Details Released So Far:
- Victims: Shelby M. Coats, 29, and Andrew C. Lause, 30, both fatally shot.
- Suspect: Paul A. Boldman, 51, suspected of committing the shootings and later taking his own life.
- Timeline: The incident unfolded early Monday morning following a confession to a friend.
While the community grapples with the shock of this tragedy, law enforcement continues its investigation to piece together the events leading up to the deaths.
