Columbus Police Investigate Death of Man Found with Gunshot Wound to the Chest

The Columbus Police Department is conducting a death investigation after officers found a deceased male with a gunshot wound in the 6400 block of Old Post Court on Tuesday evening.

At approximately 7:29 p.m. on May 21, 2025, officers responded to a call regarding an unresponsive individual. Upon arrival, they located 49-year-old James Nathan Smith deceased on the living room floor, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest area. EMS responded but was unable to resuscitate him. Deputy Coroner Elizabeth Allison pronounced Smith deceased at the scene.

The Violent Crimes Unit has taken the lead on the investigation. While preliminary indicators suggest a possible self-inflicted injury, the Columbus Police Department will await the official ruling from the Medical Examiner’s Office following the completion of an autopsy.

Investigators are actively following up on all leads and will make further determinations once all evidence has been processed and reviewed. The department emphasizes its commitment to a thorough and unbiased review of the facts in this ongoing investigation.