Cincinnati Daily Brief: Double shooting identified, courthouse disruption, fire deaths rising

Top story: West-side double shooting

Police say two men were found shot to death early Wednesday in the Villages at Roll Hill, on the city’s west side. Investigators said officers responded just before 2 a.m. after a ShotSpotter alert, and both victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Detectives are asking anyone with information to contact the city’s homicide unit.

Courthouse disturbance after plea deal

A packed courtroom at the Hamilton County Courthouse spilled into the hallway Tuesday when a case tied to a 2024 fatal shooting ended in a plea agreement, officials said. Witnesses reported shouting and a large melee on the fifth floor as deputies escorted the defendant out. The sheriff’s office said three adults were cited for disorderly conduct and a juvenile was taken into custody and later released to family.

Fire officials push prevention as fatalities rise

City fire leaders are sounding the alarm after six fire-related deaths in the first two months of 2026, a total that matches all of 2025. Officials say many recent fires were already in advanced stages when crews arrived, and they’re doubling down on education, home safety checks, and neighborhood-focused outreach. Residents who need a smoke alarm can call 311 to request a free alarm and installation.

Bengals’ 2026 travel could include London

The Bengals’ 2026 schedule includes a road game against Washington, and the Commanders have been approved to host a game in London next season. That doesn’t guarantee Cincinnati is heading overseas, but it puts the matchup in the mix as the league expands its international slate to a record nine games in 2026.

Ohio Supreme Court weighs Duke Energy billing dispute

A case now before the Ohio Supreme Court centers on whether Duke Energy can recover about $14 million tied to a claimed error connected to a prior rate agreement. The decision could influence how similar utility adjustments are handled and may affect future costs for customers served in the Cincinnati area.

Sources

https://www.fox19.com/2026/02/25/2-dead-cincinnati-double-shooting/

https://www.wlwt.com/article/massive-fight-hamilton-county-courthouse-arrests/70480412

https://www.wlwt.com/article/cincinnati-fire-chief-warning-signs-mckinley-deaths/70485091

https://www.wlwt.com/article/bengals-international-game-2026-washington-commanders-london/70494080

Ohio Supreme Court weighs $14M Duke Energy charge that could impact Cincinnati electric bills