Man charged in connection with shooting that killed mother of 5 in apartment stairwell

47-year-old Willie Gordon arrested and charged with murder, tampering with evidence, and having weapons under disability

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A 47-year-old man named Willie Gordon has been arrested and charged with murder, tampering with evidence, and having weapons under disability in connection with a shooting that killed a 31-year-old mother of five named Tekeya McCollum in the stairwell of a Walnut Hills apartment building in Cincinnati.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing gun violence issues in Cincinnati, where the McCollum family has now suffered multiple losses due to violent crimes. The case raises concerns about public safety, access to firearms, and the need for stronger community support systems.

The details

According to police, officers found Tekeya McCollum suffering from a gunshot wound in the stairwell of a Walnut Hills apartment building in December. One resident reported hearing an altercation on the fourth floor followed by a gunshot and a scream. Gordon has now been arrested and charged with McCollum's murder, as well as tampering with evidence and having weapons under disability.

  • The shooting incident occurred in December.
  • Willie Gordon was arrested in connection with the shooting in February 2026.

The players

Willie Gordon

A 47-year-old man who has been arrested and charged with murder, tampering with evidence, and having weapons under disability in connection with the shooting death of Tekeya McCollum.

Tekeya McCollum

A 31-year-old mother of five who was killed in a shooting incident in the stairwell of a Walnut Hills apartment building in Cincinnati.

DeRonn McCollum

Tekeya McCollum's brother, who expressed grief over the loss of his sister and the family's previous tragedies.

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What they’re saying

“'The biggest thing is having to explain to her kids — I mean, it's five of them — that you'll never see your mother again.'”

— DeRonn McCollum, Tekeya McCollum's brother (WHIO)

“'I had went and connected with my grandmother spiritually yesterday. It was right before I heard of (the shooting), so I feel that (Tekeya) is in good hands, and we'll get through this.'”

— DeRonn McCollum, Tekeya McCollum's brother (WHIO)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Willie Gordon out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the ongoing gun violence issues in Cincinnati and the devastating impact on families, especially children who have now lost both their mother and other close relatives to violent crimes. It underscores the need for stronger community support systems and measures to address access to firearms and public safety concerns.