COLUMBUS, Ohio A 38-year-old man who died during a police shooting outside a private club on Columbus’ Northeast Side on March 31 died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to the Franklin County Coroner’s Office.
The incident occurred around 10:01 p.m. March 31 at the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 1427, located at 1970 Schrock Road in the Northland area. The man, identified as Robert S. Gordon, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Franklin County Coroner’s Office said in an autopsy report released April 16 that Gordon died from a gunshot wound to the head that he inflicted on himself at close range. The report found Gordon was also struck by gunfire from responding Columbus police officers, but those wounds did not contribute to or expedite his death. The manner of death was ruled a suicide.
Toxicology results showed Gordon had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.298% at the time of his death, according to the coroner.
Incident Timeline
According to the Columbus Division of Police, officers were first alerted at approximately 10:01 p.m. after a caller reported a disturbance involving a man attempting to enter the private club.
A second 911 caller at 10:14 p.m. reported the man had a gun and had fired it. Officers were dispatched at 10:16 p.m.
Police said Gordon approached the club and demanded entry despite not being a member. Staff asked him to leave, and additional callers reported he fired a shot outside and was pointing a gun.
Body camera footage released by Columbus police shows Gordon in the parking lot with a firearm as officers arrived. Officers gave multiple commands for him to drop the weapon before shots were fired, according to police.
Authorities said three officers discharged their weapons during the encounter.
Investigation Status
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is conducting an independent investigation into the officers’ use of force, as is standard protocol. That investigation remains ongoing.
The Columbus Division of Police has not released the current duty status of the involved officers.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day.
Sources
Franklin County Coroner’s Office, Autopsy report for Robert S. Gordon, released April 16, 2026
Columbus Division of Police, Incident timeline and body camera footage release, April 2026
Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Confirmation of independent investigation, April 2026
Disclaimer: This article is based on information released by Columbus authorities and verified sources at the time of publication. Details may change as investigations continue.