The Murder of Garrett Burton

Garrett Burton was only 16 years-old when he was shot to death during the early morning hours of August 30th, 2008. Garrett lived in Columbus, Ohio, and he had begun his junior year of high school just days before he was killed. On the Friday afternoon of August 29th, 2008, Garrett was picked up from school by two friends.

The three friends then went to the Hilliard-Rome area to hang out. Garrett's mother Patti Burton expected him to be home by his 11:30 PM curfew, but he never showed up. A short time later, Patti learned her son had been killed.

Like many teens, Garrett was a bit mischievous. However, according to his loved ones, he had never been in any serious trouble before. During the late-night hours of August 29th into the early morning hours of August 30th, Garrett and his two friends were throwing eggs at passing cars in the Hilliard-Rome area. 

At some point, a man got angry about the egging and approached Garrett and his friends with a gun. 

The friends reportedly ran and hid behind a tree, while Garrett remained in plain sight. One of the friends would later tell Garrett's mother and investigators that "he saw Garrett put his hands up and say I did not throw any eggs at your car, but he said I can help you wash it off." 

The man then demanded that Garrett get down on the ground. Garrett began to comply, but before he could get all the way down, the man shot him in the neck. The man then fled the scene before Garrett's friends were able to get a good look at him.

Over a decade has passed since Garrett's death, and his killer has still not been captured. Earlier reports on the case state that Garrett's friends apparently did not even see a vehicle that his killer might have been driving. Since it was dark outside at the time of the shooting, it was difficult to see any distinguishing features on the suspect as well. 

There is a monetary reward for anyone with information that could lead to Garrett's killer. If you have any information that could help solve the case, please go here to submit a tip online. 

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Sources:
10tv, (2)
Ohio Attorney General