Suspect caught in stabbing death of 77-year-old woman in Columbus, police say

Columbus police say a man has been captured who was wanted in connection with the stabbing death of a 77-year-old woman Monday night on Wedel Drive.

Gregory Wharton Jr., 26, is now in custody, according to authorities. Police say warrants were put out for Wharton’s arrest for murder, two counts of battery, possession of a knife during the commission of a crime and aggravated cruelty to animals.

Police responded to the 7200 block of Wedel Drive around 5:55 p.m. on Monday in reference to an assault, according to a release. Police say they found Lystra Lewis, 77, lying in the foyer of the residence.

A dead dog with stab wounds was also found in the residence, according to authorities.

This was the second homicide in Columbus had within a 24 hour period. Scottie Lee Harris, 53, was fatally shot in the 3600 block of Surrey Lane early Monday morning, according to authorities.

This is the 31st homicide in Columbus this year, according to a list compiled by the Ledger-Enquirer.

This story is ongoing and will be updated as new information becomes available.

This story was originally published July 26, 2023 at 5:06 PM.