Plea Results in Life With Parole Eligibility After 27 Years Elijah Roberts, 19, pleaded guilty to aggravated murder and tampering with evidence, prompting a judge to impose a life sentence that allows parole after 27 years, concluding the case for the July 9, 2025 shooting [1]. The Delaware County Prosecutor’s Office announced the plea agreement and sentencing details, marking the legal resolution of the investigation [1]. This sentencing follows a comprehensive investigation by Columbus police and local prosecutors [1].

Shooting Occurred at Target Parking Lot on Polaris Parkway On July 9, 2025, Columbus police responded to a shooting in the Target parking lot at 1485 Polaris Parkway, discovering 26‑year‑old Joseph Suiter with a gunshot wound and pronouncing him dead at 6:19 p.m. [1]. Suiter’s death occurred near The Garden at Polaris Apartments, not inside the Target store itself, according to Sgt. Joseph Albert [1]. The incident was not linked to Target operations, and investigators suggested the confrontation stemmed from a drug deal [1].

Witnesses Identify Roberts as Shooter and Motive Linked to Drug Deal Multiple witnesses at the scene later identified Elijah Roberts as the gunman, providing key testimony that led to his arrest [1]. Detectives concluded the shooting likely resulted from a dispute over a drug transaction, adding context to the motive behind the fatal encounter [1]. Law enforcement’s rapid identification and corroboration of Roberts’ involvement facilitated the plea negotiation [1].

Prosecutors Detail Legal Process and Community Impact The Delaware County Prosecutor’s Office disclosed the plea terms and life sentence, emphasizing the case’s significance for public safety in north Columbus [1]. Community officials highlighted the resolution as a step toward addressing violent crime linked to drug activity in the area [1]. The sentencing underscores the judicial system’s response to a high‑profile homicide that shocked local residents [1].