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Police hope to identify person of interest in Blue Ash business owner's homicide

349 views · Published 30 August 2018 · 2:45 · Indexed 21 September 2026

Channel: LOCAL 12 · 2018 · News & Politics

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BLUE ASH, Ohio (WKRC) - A Blue Ash business owner was killed five months ago. Police released some surveillance photos in an effort to find Michael Needham's killer.

Needham's body was found in the early morning hours of March 24 in a parking lot on Floral Avenue outside the tree-trimming business he co-owned. Investigators believe he was killed sometime late Friday night or early Saturday morning.

At first, police didn't believe Needham's death was suspicious. After several days of investigation and help from the coroner's office, it was ruled a homicide. Police now say he was stabbed.

Blue Ash Police Lt. Robert Gernardt says a man is seen walking about two blocks away at 12:37 a.m., apparently waiting for a car which comes to pick him up. Police have not been able to determine that the person lives in that subdivision. They call him and the driver persons of interest. The car is believed to be a newer Nissan Versa hatchback or similar vehicle.

Police are also asking people to think back to March 24. Does anyone know someone whose behavior changed or maybe had an unexplained injury? They believe it's possible Needham's killer was also injured. 

"Based upon what we know about Mr. Needham, I'm sure he put up a violent struggle with him," said Lt. Gerhardt.

There was a lot of blood at the scene and a "mountain of evidence." Investigators say they're still waiting for results from the crime scene.

Crimestoppers has increased its reward in this case to $2,500 as part of a pilot program to solve more homicides. The increased reward is only offered through the end of the year. Anyone with information is asked to call 513-352-3040 and may remain anonymous.

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