In the early hours of Saturday morning, a devastating sequence of events unfolded across three Ohio counties, leaving a community in shock and mourning. Jacob E. Prichard, 34, of Huber Heights, is believed to have killed his wife, Jaymee M. Prichard, 33, and 25-year-old Jaime S. Gustitus, before taking his own life in the parking lot of the West Milton Municipal Building.
The tragedy began around 2 a.m. when Jacob Prichard drove to Honey Tree Place in Sugarcreek Township, broke into Gustitus’ apartment, and fatally shot her. Gustitus, a 25-year-old active-duty Air Force member, was found dead inside her condo. A 911 call from a neighbor reported hearing a loud bang and seeing a man with a gun near the scene. The caller described the man as Jacob Prichard, who reportedly told her to return inside her home before fleeing the area.
The exact time and location of Jaymee Prichard’s death remain unclear. Authorities believe she was killed sometime between Friday evening and early Saturday morning. Her body was found in the trunk of a car parked outside the West Milton Municipal Building. Jacob Prichard’s body was discovered nearby, with a handgun found next to him, indicating a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Investigators have confirmed that all three victims were employees at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The exact nature of their relationships is still under investigation. Authorities are working to determine if there was any connection between the victims beyond their shared workplace.
The West Milton community, along with neighboring towns, has been left stunned by the tragedy. Local residents expressed their shock and grief, with one neighbor stating, “It’s just shocking. It’s not every day you wake up and find out your neighbor that you’re friendly with… is a murderer.” The incident has deeply affected the community, as residents struggle to comprehend the events that transpired.
Law enforcement agencies from multiple counties are involved in the investigation, including the West Milton Police Department, Miami County Sheriff’s Office, Sugarcreek Township Police, Huber Heights Police, and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation. The Wright-Patterson Office of Special Investigations is also assisting in the case. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they work to piece together the details of this complex and deeply disturbing case.
As the investigation continues, the community remains in mourning, grappling with the loss of three lives and the unanswered questions surrounding this tragic event. The impact of this incident will undoubtedly be felt for a long time, as residents seek understanding and healing in the wake of such a devastating occurrence.