On January 1, 2026, around 2:15 p.m., a dispute over a dog being allowed inside a home in Ashland, Ohio (about 50 miles southwest of Akron), escalated into a fatal shooting. Robert Palermo, 24, allegedly shot and killed his 61-year-old roommate, John “Lefty” Grehn, multiple times at a residence in the 100 block of East Liberty Street. The two were roommates in a home owned by Palermo’s father, who was friends with Grehn and called 911 after the incident.
Police found Grehn dead inside and arrested Palermo shortly after. Ashland Source reports the argument started verbally when Palermo objected to Grehn’s dog indoors. Palermo then went upstairs, retrieved a gun from a lockbox, reignited the fight, and fired.
Charges and Status
- Robert Palermo, 24: Charged with aggravated murder by Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office. No prior criminal history. Held at Ashland County Jail on $2 million bond. Next court date: Tuesday (January 6). Faces life in prison if convicted.
Prosecutor Christopher R. Tunnell called it a “profound and tragic loss,” praising local safety services while noting Ashland’s overall safety.
Legal Context
In Ohio, aggravated murder (ORC 2903.01) is the most serious homicide charge, often involving prior calculation or felony commission, carrying mandatory life without parole or death penalty eligibility—here, life if convicted. This roommate dispute highlights domestic violence escalation risks; Ohio law allows bond for such cases but sets high amounts based on flight risk and severity.
For updates, monitor Ashland County court records or local outlets like Ashland Source. Thoughts with Grehn’s loved ones.
