Ohio Father Dies Days After Fatally Shooting Daughter During Halloween Trick-or-Treating

 

STRONGSVILLE, Ohio — A 74-year-old man has died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound days after allegedly shooting and killing his daughter during Halloween trick-or-treating festivities, according to authorities.

Gene Tomcho, of North Ridgeville, died Tuesday in the hospital, Strongsville police confirmed. Tomcho is accused of fatally shooting his daughter, Gina Guyer, 49, at her home on Rock Creek Circle on Friday, October 31.

Police say officers responded to the residence at 8:06 p.m. after receiving reports of shots fired. When officers arrived, they found Guyer suffering from multiple gunshot wounds and Tomcho holding a firearm. Officers ordered Tomcho to drop the weapon, but he instead shot himself, police said.

Both were transported to nearby hospitals. Guyer died shortly after arrival. Tomcho remained hospitalized until his death.

At the time of the incident, Guyer’s children were reportedly present and witnessed the shooting.

Domestic Incident, Not Random Attack

Investigators said the shooting was a domestic-related incident and not a random act of violence. Strongsville police did not report any previous calls for service at the residence.

Cleveland19 reported that Tomcho arrived at the home disguised as a trick-or-treater, knocking on the door before opening fire when his daughter answered.

Tomcho had been charged with felonious assault, with additional charges, including murder, pending prior to his death, according to WKYC.

A GoFundMe campaign has been established by a relative to assist with funeral expenses and potential relocation needs for the surviving family.

“On Halloween… Gina answered the door thinking it was a trick-or-treater. It was her father. He shot and killed her, then shot himself in front of his grandchildren,” the organizer wrote.
“We can’t imagine the trauma. Anything will help during this horrible time.”

As of Wednesday, the fundraiser had raised $240.

Strongsville Police and the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the tragedy.