Late Tuesday, a quiet night at a Papa John’s on West 8th Street in the West Price Hill neighborhood of Cincinnati turned tragic. At around 11 p.m., officers responding to calls of gunfire found 23‑year-old Nawaf Althawadi suffering from a fatal gunshot wound. Emergency crews attempted to save him, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators say a suspect was taken into custody shortly after the shooting. The arrested individual has been identified as 21‑year-old Murphy Tilk, currently facing a murder charge.
At this stage, law enforcement has neither released details about what led to the shooting nor confirmed any connection between the victim or suspect and the restaurant — whether as employees, customers, or bystanders.
The crime‑scene perimeter remained sealed into early Wednesday, with homicide detectives combing the restaurant for evidence, reviewing surveillance video, and interviewing witnesses in a bid to piece together the chain of events.
Neighbors and regulars in West Price Hill, who often visit Papa John’s for casual meals or take‑out, have been shaken by the violence. Community members voiced growing concern — a reminder of how quickly a familiar place can become the center of tragedy.
As of now, no additional suspects have been named, and police say there’s no indication of an ongoing threat to the public. Still, investigators are urging anyone with possible information — no matter how small — to come forward.
Friends, family, and neighbors are left mourning Althawadi’s sudden loss. In the coming days, the community will watch closely as the legal process begins and more details about the motive, timeline, and potential triggers of the killing emerge.
The post Nawaf Althawadi, 23, Killed in Overnight Shooting at Papa John’s — Suspect Murphy Tilk in Custody appeared first on Tripplenews.
