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Columbus Couple Murders: Suspect Charged After 4 Years

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/0 .. ouple-murders-suspect-charged-after-4-years.html
  Published in House and Home on Monday, February 2nd 2026 at 5:22 GMT by 7News Miami
      Locale: UNITED STATES

COLUMBUS, Ohio - After nearly four years, a suspect has finally been identified and charged in the brutal 2022 murders of Robert and Lisa Will, a Columbus couple found dead in their home on May 25th. James E. Rodriquez, 51, was arrested on Friday and is facing charges of murder and aggravated robbery. The arrest brings a measure of closure to a case that initially focused on the couple's son, Chase Will, before shifting dramatically with the emergence of new evidence.

Robert and Lisa Will, aged 58 and 47 respectively, were discovered deceased at their residence, triggering a lengthy and complex investigation by the Columbus Police Department. Early in the investigation, Chase Will became a person of interest. Investigators meticulously pursued this line of inquiry, but inconsistencies and a lack of concrete evidence ultimately led them to clear him of any involvement. This decision, while difficult, underscores the department's commitment to following the evidence wherever it leads, even if it means revisiting initial assumptions.

"We never stopped working this case," stated Columbus Police Chief Kenny Stephens during a press conference held this morning. "Despite the initial focus on other potential suspects, our detectives remained diligent, tirelessly pursuing every lead. New leads and information came to light that ultimately led us to Mr. Rodriquez." Chief Stephens declined to elaborate on the nature of the new evidence, citing the ongoing investigation and the need to protect the integrity of the upcoming trial. He did, however, emphasize the importance of forensic analysis and persistent detective work in cracking the case.

The revelation that Rodriquez is the prime suspect introduces a new layer of complexity to the investigation. Sources close to the case, speaking on condition of anonymity, indicate that Rodriquez was previously married to Lisa Will. The divorce, reportedly finalized several years prior to the murders, was described as acrimonious, with ongoing disputes surrounding alimony and property settlements. While this history provides a potential motive, investigators are carefully exploring all possible angles, including financial gain and potential connections to other individuals.

Aggravated robbery charges suggest that the motive wasn't solely based on personal animosity. Investigators are now exploring whether the robbery was pre-planned, or if it occurred during the commission of the murders. Evidence gathered at the crime scene is being meticulously analyzed to determine what, if anything, was taken from the Will residence. Neighbors have reported no evidence of forced entry, leading investigators to speculate that the perpetrator may have been known to the victims.

Rodriquez is currently being held in the Franklin County Jail awaiting his arraignment scheduled for Monday. He faces a potentially lengthy prison sentence if convicted on the charges. The Franklin County Prosecutor's Office is preparing a strong case, relying heavily on forensic evidence, witness testimony, and a thorough reconstruction of the events leading up to the murders.

The Will family, who have endured years of uncertainty and grief, have been notified of the arrest. While they are understandably reserved in their comments, they expressed gratitude to the Columbus Police Department for their unwavering commitment to solving the case. They have requested privacy as they prepare for the legal proceedings.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the lasting impact of domestic disputes and the importance of thorough investigation in even the coldest of cases. The Columbus Police Department's dedication to pursuing justice, even after years have passed, highlights the unwavering commitment of law enforcement to protect and serve the community. The trial promises to be a closely watched event, as the details surrounding the tragic deaths of Robert and Lisa Will are finally revealed.