Ohio Father of Four Killed in Put-in-Bay Shooting

Robert "Rob" Russell, a 39‑year‑old father of four from Chester Township, was shot and killed on July 23 while celebrating his upcoming 40th birthday with his wife at Mr. Ed’s Bar & Grille in Put‑in‑Bay, Ohio. He suffered multiple gunshot wounds and died at the scene despite emergency medical efforts.

Authorities arrested 21‑year‑old Colton Smith of Brownstown, Michigan, charging him with murder. Smith was taken into custody by the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office and is being held on a $1 million bond. Police say there was no prior connection between Smith and Russell, and the motive remains unknown. The incident has been described by the victim’s family as a "senseless act of violence."