Columbus police have released the identity of the man who died following a stabbing in the Weinland Park neighborhood, describing the incident as the result of a violent altercation that turned deadly.
Authorities say officers were dispatched shortly before 1 a.m. on Thursday, August 22, to the 1200 block of Summit Street after receiving reports of a fight in progress. When officers arrived, they found 24-year-old Petes K. Laurent-Baptisma suffering from multiple stab wounds. He was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition but succumbed to his injuries two days later. The Franklin County Coroner’s Office has since ruled his death a homicide.
According to investigators, Laurent-Baptisma sustained three stab wounds—two to his lower right forearm and one to his upper chest. The stabbing was reportedly carried out by an “unknown Black male,” who has not yet been apprehended. Police have confirmed that the individual involved in the altercation is known to authorities, though his identity has not been released publicly. Detectives said the case will be presented to a Franklin County grand jury once all evidence is reviewed.
Court records and charging documents show that, prior to the stabbing, Laurent-Baptisma allegedly struck his live-in girlfriend during the dispute. His sister, who was present during the altercation, told investigators she witnessed the domestic violence but did not see the stabbing itself. At the time of his death, Laurent-Baptisma had pending charges for domestic violence and assault.
The incident has raised concerns in the community about the escalating dangers of domestic disputes and the tragic consequences that can unfold when violence occurs inside the home.
No arrests have yet been made, and police continue to urge community members to come forward with any additional details. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Columbus Police Homicide Unit at (614) 645-4730 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-TIPS (8477). Detective Collins is leading the investigation with the assistance of Detective Johnson.