Toledo, Ohio — The tragic death of 26-year-old Cole Lepkowski has prompted his parents to take legal action against the owner of an Airbnb property where a party was hosted on the night he was fatally shot. Mark and Amy Lepkowski filed their lawsuit in Lucas County Common Pleas Court, claiming that Jennifer Wolf’s negligence contributed to their son’s untimely demise.
The Lepkowskis allege that the party, held at Wolf’s rental located on West Lincolnshire Boulevard, was poorly supervised and had been unauthorized. According to the complaint, her failure to ensure safety led to a chaotic scene, culminating in the shooting. The couple’s son was reportedly struck in the head by a firearm discharged during the event.
On the evening of June 29, Cole and his fiancé, Andrew Price, were returning home from a late-night snack run when they encountered the aftermath of the party. As they drove through their normally tranquil neighborhood, they noticed an unusual number of double-parked cars. Price recounted the moment gunfire erupted as they passed two men standing nearby, tragically altering their lives forever.
Police body camera footage captured the horrifying moments that followed. Officers arrived at the scene shortly after 10 p.m. and found Andrew desperately performing CPR on Cole, who was lying on a patch of grass. Cole did not survive the incident, which has left his community in shock and mourning.
The lawsuit highlights several key allegations against Wolf, including gross negligence. The complaint asserts that she was aware of the potential risks associated with a large gathering in her rental property but did not take appropriate precautions. It also claims that Wolf’s listing on Airbnb was in violation of city regulations, as she had not properly registered her property for short-term rentals.
In their pursuit of justice, the Lepkowskis are seeking compensation in excess of $25,000, along with punitive damages surpassing $10 million. The circumstances surrounding Cole’s death remain under investigation, with police continuing to search for the shooter.
The emotional toll of this incident weighs heavily on those who knew Cole and Andrew. The couple had recently become engaged and were excitedly planning their future together. Memories of their time spent in a home they thought safe now harbor a haunting reality for Andrew, who struggles with feelings of loss and vulnerability.
“I still feel his presence here,” Andrew shared, reflecting on their life together. He continues to honor Cole’s memory by lighting a candle each night and cherishing the love notes they exchanged over the years. The pain of that night lingers, but Andrew finds solace in celebrating the love they shared.
Cole’s story serves as a painful reminder of the impact of gun violence, and as the investigation continues, the family hopes to bring awareness to the issue through their legal battle. They encourage anyone with information regarding the shooting to contact Toledo police or Crime Stoppers anonymously. As the search for justice unfolds, they remain committed to ensuring that Cole’s legacy is never forgotten.