Ohio Man Sentenced to Life for Fatal Shooting Near Elementary School

Franklin County residents were shocked last week when a local jury sentenced 24‑year‑old Nicko Matthews‑Cooper to life in prison for a shooting that left 21‑year‑old Kaelan Amerson dead. The verdict, delivered at the Columbus County Courthouse, carries a parole window that won’t open for another 27 years.

The incident dates back to December 2024, when deputies from the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call about a shooting near Licking Heights West Elementary School in Jefferson Township. Officers found Amerson riddled with bullets inside his vehicle and rushed him to a Columbus hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

According to detectives, Amerson and four companions were in the middle of a drug transaction when Matthews‑Cooper allegedly tried to rob Amerson. The confrontation escalated quickly, and Matthews‑Cooper opened fire into the car, striking Amerson in the upper torso. Remarkably, Amerson managed to drive away before collapsing, while two other bystanders were also hit but survived with minor injuries.

During the trial, the prosecution charged Matthews‑Cooper with murder, felonious assault, and several related offenses. The jury, however, acquitted him of aggravated robbery and aggravated murder, narrowing the convictions to the lesser counts. Nonetheless, the life‑sentence verdict reflects the gravity of taking a young life in such a public setting.

Family members of Amerson expressed a mix of sorrow and relief. “We didn’t want anyone to get away with this,” said his sister, who asked to remain anonymous. “Knowing he’ll be behind bars for a long time brings a tiny bit of peace.”

Law enforcement officials emphasized that the shooting occurred in a high‑traffic area near a school, underscoring the dangers of drug‑related violence spilling into community spaces. Sheriff’s deputies are now reviewing security protocols around schools to prevent similar tragedies.

Matthews‑Cooper’s next steps involve filing an appeal, a move his attorney hinted would be “aggressive and thorough.” For now, the community can only hope that the long‑term incarceration will serve as a deterrent and a small measure of justice for a life cut short.