South Charleston, Ohio – An 81-year-old man, William Brock, has been charged with murder in the fatal shooting of a 61-year-old Black Uber driver, Lo-Letha Hall. The incident took place outside Brock’s residence, about an hour outside Dayton, Ohio.
Brock allegedly shot Hall after he believed she was involved with scammers who had contacted him earlier that day. The scam caller falsely claimed to be an officer at the local courthouse, informing Brock that a family member was in jail and required a significant bond amount.
Hall, who had arrived at Brock’s home to pick up a package through the Uber app, was accused of being associated with the scammer upon her arrival. Despite Hall’s denial of any involvement, Brock pointed a gun at her, confiscated her cellphone, and prevented her from leaving.
The situation escalated, leading to Brock shooting Hall three times before calling the police. Hall succumbed to her injuries during surgery at a nearby hospital. Subsequently, Brock was arrested and charged with murder, felonious assault, and kidnapping after authorities determined that Hall posed no threat and that Brock had failed to seek police assistance during the encounter.
Uber expressed condolences to Hall’s family and assured co-operation with law enforcement in the investigation. The ride-sharing company confirmed banning the account that had ordered the Uber to Brock’s house.
This tragic incident adds to a series of unprovoked shootings involving Black individuals, highlighting the ongoing racial tensions and violence in the region. Recent similar incidents have underscored the need for heightened awareness and accountability to prevent such senseless acts of violence. The community mourns the loss of Lo-Letha Hall and seeks justice for her untimely death.