CINCINNATI — A 21-year-old man appeared in court Tuesday, facing a murder charge linked to the shooting of his coworker at a local Papa John’s. Defense attorneys describe the incident as a “tragic accident,” insisting that the accused had no intention to harm his friend.
Murphy Tilk was indicted following the fatal shooting that occurred on December 9. Emergency dispatchers alerted law enforcement about the situation, stating that a victim had been shot in the face at the restaurant located on West 8th Street. Upon arrival, Cincinnati police secured the area and initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Evidence suggests the two men were colleagues, both currently attending Cincinnati State.
Nawaf Althawadi, 23, was pronounced dead at the scene. As the court convened, Tilk’s attorneys detailed the relationship between the two men, noting they had been best friends since childhood. They expressed that Tilk was deeply affected by the loss of Althawadi. “Ultimately, this was a tragic accident,” the defense claimed.
In court, the defense presented 24 letters from family and friends advocating for Tilk, emphasizing his lack of a prior criminal record. They noted that he stayed at the scene and did not attempt to escape when police arrived. The prosecution indicated that witnesses reported hearing two gunshots within a two-second interval, one of which struck Althawadi in the eye. Although Tilk did not communicate directly with law enforcement, he allegedly told his father it was an accident.
Both men reportedly carried firearms for protection while making pizza deliveries, and shell casings recovered from the scene were found to match Tilk’s weapon. The prosecution also disclosed that no video footage exists of the incident.
Tilk’s attorneys argued that he did not intend to cause harm, describing the bond between the two friends as exceptionally close. “Everyone knows Murphy and Nuwaf had a very special relationship,” the defense stated.
Currently enrolled in Cincinnati State with aspirations to become an oncologist, Tilk has garnered considerable support from family and friends. His defense team requested a modest bond of $50,000 at 10 percent due to the circumstances surrounding the case.
After reviewing the letters of support, Judge Anita Berding acknowledged the complexities of the situation. She described the case as “incredibly troubling and difficult,” before ultimately setting the bond at $250,000 at 10 percent—reportedly the lowest she has ever granted for a case of this nature. Should bond conditions be met, Tilk will remain under electronic monitoring, permitted only to leave for medical or legal appointments.