Crime
Richard Eastin and Amanda Leigh Wakut Found Shot Dead in Lakewood Home, Suspect Stephen Davis Dies by Suicide Following Police Pursuit
LAKEWOOD, Ohio — A tragic homicide investigation is underway after two people were found fatally shot inside a Lakewood residence early Sunday morning, while the suspected gunman died by suicide following a brief police pursuit and standoff, according to authorities.
The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victims as Richard Eastin, 35, of Cleveland, and Amanda Leigh Wakut, 33, of Lakewood.
The suspected shooter was identified as Stephen Davis, 45, of Fairview Park.
According to the Lakewood Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 4:26 a.m. on June 21, 2026, to a residence in the 2100 block of Chesterland Avenue after Davis reportedly contacted his ex-wife and told her that he had shot two people inside the home and intended to take his own life.
The alarming call prompted an immediate response from law enforcement officers, who began searching the area surrounding the residence.
While responding to the neighborhood, officers observed a dark-colored pickup truck leaving the area at a high rate of speed.
Police attempted a traffic stop, but the driver continued through Lakewood, leading officers on a short pursuit before eventually stopping near 1280 Warren Road.
Authorities said Davis exited the truck armed with a handgun and immediately placed the weapon to his head.
Lakewood police officers spent several minutes attempting to negotiate with Davis and convince him to surrender peacefully.
According to investigators, Davis ignored repeated commands to put down the weapon. During the standoff, he reportedly attempted to contact both his estranged wife and his daughter by phone.
Police said officers continued efforts to de-escalate the situation and encouraged Davis to surrender, but after several minutes he raised the firearm to his head and fatally shot himself.
Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
Following the standoff, officers returned to the Chesterland Avenue residence where they discovered the bodies of Amanda Leigh Wakut and Richard Eastin inside the kitchen area of the home.
Both victims had sustained fatal gunshot wounds and were pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have not released details regarding the exact number of shots fired or the specific circumstances surrounding the killings.
Investigators confirmed that Amanda Wakut and Stephen Davis had been in a dating relationship for approximately one year.
Police said the pair had reportedly attended an event together earlier in the day and witnesses indicated there were no obvious signs of conflict or distress before the shootings.
Detectives are still working to determine the relationship between Richard Eastin and the other individuals involved.
At this time, authorities have not publicly explained why Eastin was present at the residence or how he was connected to Davis and Wakut.
Lakewood police say a motive has not yet been determined.
Investigators have interviewed multiple witnesses who described the couple as appearing to get along earlier in the day, leaving detectives searching for answers about what triggered the deadly violence.
Police also stated that officers had only previously responded to the residence once for an argument involving the couple.
No reports of disturbances or unusual activity were received from neighbors on the night of the shootings.
The Lakewood Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances that led to the apparent double homicide and subsequent suicide.
Detectives are reviewing evidence, conducting interviews, and examining the relationships between those involved in an effort to establish a timeline and determine what led to the deadly events that unfolded Sunday morning.
Authorities have not announced any additional findings as the investigation remains ongoing.
Crime
Brian and Keyata Harman Identified in Apparent Murder-Suicide Investigation in Nelson County, Kentucky
NELSON COUNTY, Ky. — A heartbreaking tragedy in Nelson County has left a school community mourning the loss of a beloved educator, volleyball coach, and mentor. Authorities are investigating the deaths of Brian Harman, 54, and his wife, Keyata Harman, 52, in what officials are describing as an apparent murder-suicide.
The Nelson County Coroner’s Office identified the couple following an incident early Tuesday morning. Investigators say Brian Harman allegedly shot and killed his wife before his own death. Authorities have not yet released a complete account of the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Court records indicate that Keyata Harman had filed for divorce from her estranged husband on October 15, less than a month before the deadly incident. Officials have not confirmed whether the divorce proceedings were connected to the events under investigation.
Beyond the tragedy, Keyata Harman is being remembered for the meaningful difference she made in the lives of students, athletes, colleagues, and families throughout the Bardstown community.
She worked as a teacher at Bardstown Middle School and also served as the head coach of the girls’ varsity volleyball team at Nelson County High School, Bardstown City Schools confirmed.
Her work extended far beyond the classroom and the volleyball court. She was known as someone students could turn to for encouragement, guidance, and support.
Bardstown Middle School Principal Matt Bartley reflected on the lasting influence she had on those around her.
“She made lasting impressions on countless students and colleagues in her time at Bardstown Middle. Her impact will be felt for years to come,” Bartley said.
Bardstown City Schools Superintendent Ryan Clark also shared heartfelt words about the educator, remembering her dedication to young people and her ability to make students feel supported.
“Ms. Harman had a heart for kids and was always in their corner,” Clark said. He described her as someone who cheered students on at games, listened when they needed someone, and served as a mentor to those seeking advice and encouragement.
Clark added that although teaching was not her first profession, her natural ability to connect with children showed that education had become her calling.
For the many students and athletes she supported, Keyata was more than a teacher or coach. She was a trusted mentor whose encouragement and kindness made a lasting impression.
As the Bardstown community comes to terms with the loss, Bardstown City Schools announced that counseling services are available to students, teachers, and staff members affected by the tragedy.
A vigil honoring Keyata Harman is scheduled for Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Nelson County High School. The gathering will provide an opportunity for students, colleagues, friends, and community members to remember her life and recognize the impact she had on so many people.
The Nelson County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident. Authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The loss of Keyata Harman has deeply affected the school community where she dedicated her time and energy to helping young people grow. Her legacy will be remembered through the students she encouraged, the athletes she coached, and the countless individuals whose lives she touched.
Our deepest condolences go out to her family, friends, students, players, colleagues, and everyone grieving this devastating loss. May they find strength and comfort in the memories they shared with her.
May Keyata Harman rest in peace.
Domestic Violence Support: If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, confidential help is available 24 hours a day through the National Domestic Violence Hotline:
- Call: 1-800-799-7233
- Text: START to 88788
You are not alone, and support is available.