A New Year’s Day shooting at a home in Ashland has left a 61-year-old man dead and prompted a multi-agency investigation. Authorities say the deadly incident unfolded in a residential neighborhood, sending shockwaves through the community as police worked to secure the scene and determine what led to the violence.
The Ashland Police Division confirmed that officers responded to a 911 call around 2:15 p.m. on Jan. 1 at a residence in the 100 block of East Liberty Street. The call was placed by John Palermo, who lives at the home and was not injured. Police, along with members of the Ashland Fire Division, arrived to find John Grehn, 61, deceased inside the residence.
Investigators say the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is assisting Ashland police with the case, along with the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office. Detectives quickly secured the scene and began processing evidence to understand the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting. Authorities have not released details about how Grehn was killed or what may have led up to the incident.
Police confirmed that 24-year-old Robert Palermo, of Ashland, was taken into custody at the scene. He is currently being held at the Ashland County Jail while the case is reviewed by the Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office. At this time, officials have not announced formal charges, and no court dates have been released.
As part of the investigation, detectives executed a search warrant at the home to collect evidence related to the shooting. During the response, the Ashland County Humane Society took custody of a dog that was found inside the residence. Authorities said the dog was unharmed and is being cared for while the investigation continues.
In a press release, the Ashland Police Division emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public. “The investigation is ongoing. There are no safety concerns for the community at this time,” police said. Officials have not indicated whether the victim and suspect knew each other or what their relationship may have been.
The fatal shooting has left neighbors stunned, especially as it occurred on a day typically associated with new beginnings. As investigators work to piece together what happened inside the East Liberty Street home, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. More details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses and prosecutors review the case.
