COLUMBUS, Ohio — On Thursday afternoon, William Armstead Jr. waived his appearance in juvenile court.
Armstead Jr. is charged with murder and aggravated robbery for allegedly being involved in the shooting of Andrew Combs who was shot and killed at a west Columbus Sunoco gas station while trying to stop his friend from being robbed on Dec. 13, 2022.
The victim’s mother, Deborah Combs, said the arrest made her feel like she is one step closer to getting justice for her son.
“I felt happiness this person isn’t out on the streets anymore, but it's complicated, it's sadness. There is no real winner here,” said Combs.
This is the second person to be arrested in her son's case. In February, 16-year-old Dreyton Johnson was charged with murder in connection to the shooting.
“He shot Andrew four times, he made a big decision. Not just once, twice, but four times. There are consequences for your decisions,” she said.
It’s been almost one year since Combs lost her son. She said she misses his smile which could light up a room. She wishes he was still here.
“Andrew is missing out on his life and people to need think about that when they pick up a gun, it's forever,” said Combs.
Andrew was a father-to-be at the time of his death. His son, Kyzer, is now 5 months old.
“A joy, but bittersweet because Andrew is not here to witness any of those milestones and experiences. The joy is all he really wanted. He would say 'Mom, I just want to be married and have a family,'” she said.
Combs got a tattoo on her arm that says “Forever safe” in memory of her son.
“It brings me great comfort. I know he is with Jesus now, he is in heaven and he is forever safe. Every time I see that, I think of Andrew,” she said.