An Ohio woman, Rachel Counts, 23, was allegedly shot and killed by her friend during a game of Russian roulette, authorities say. The incident occurred on October 5 at a home in northern Cincinnati. Counts was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to prosecutors, Omarion Horne, also 23, asked Counts if she wanted to play Russian roulette. Prosecutors say Horne removed all but one bullet from a gun, placed it to his head, and then pointed it at Counts before pulling the trigger. Counts was struck in the chest.
Horne was arrested the following morning and charged with felony murder, felonious assault, and reckless homicide. His bond was set at $1 million. Courtroom footage showed Horne breaking down in tears as prosecutors described the alleged events.
Judge William Mallory called the situation “truly a tragedy” and emphasized the danger of treating firearms as toys. Horne could face life in prison if convicted. His defense attorney asked the court for leniency, noting that Horne has no prior criminal record.
Horne is scheduled to appear before a grand jury on October 16. Investigators continue to gather information about the circumstances surrounding Counts’ death.
