COLUMBUS, Ohio — Imperial Stewart, the 17-year-old boy who was reported missing from the North Linden area more than a week ago, was found dead on Tuesday, his family says.
According to Stewart's family, his body was found in the area of Sunbury and Agler roads on the city's northeast side. Earlier on Tuesday, police said they believe Stewart may be dead, but have not confirmed it to 10TV.
A total have six people have been charged in the case:
- Michael Bowles — Murder
- 16-year-old boy — Murder
- Mi'Quel Bowles and Tywisha Peterson — Obstructing justice
- Genee Dumas and a 17-year-old girl — Obstruction of official business, tampering with evidence and resisting arrest.
According to Franklin County Municipal Court documents, Stewart was in a vehicle with a 16-year-old boy on Sept. 20 when they tried to rob Stewart of a gun he just bought from 20-year-old Michael Bowles. A struggle ensued and Bowles shot Stewart, documents say. A warrant was issued for Bowles' arrest.
Previous court documents say Mi'Quel was shot in a Chrysler 300 during a robbery of Stewart on Sept. 20. The documents also added that the vehicle belonged to Michael.
Witnesses told police that Michael dropped Mi'Quel off in the Chrysler at his grandfather's house after he was shot. Mi'Quel denied being in the car with his brother or having any knowledge of the missing person report or possible murder of Stewart.
Court documents say Peterson, who is Michael and Mi'Quel's mother, was questioned by Columbus police on Oct. 2 where witnesses claimed they saw her speaking with Michael "after the possible murder." Police wrote in the affidavit that she allegedly took part in a conversation on how to get rid of the vehicle used in the possible murder.
Police later found the vehicle burned in Fairfield County. Peterson denied having anything to do with the case, according to court records.
Court records say that Dumas was seen by multiple officers attempting to tamper with evidence by smashing her phone and allegedly told her daughter to do the same. Police wrote in the affidavit that Dumas pushed and pulled against officers during her arrest.
Anyone with information regarding the suspects or the incident is asked to call 614-774-7865. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Central Ohio Crime Stoppers by calling 614-461-TIPS (8477).
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