The identity of the victim of a Monday night murder in Circleville has been announced by authorities. Circleville Police have identified Raymond E. Dixon, 57 of Circleville, as the person killed in a violent attack inside of a West Main Street Apartment.
According to a release from Circleville Police, on Monday, September 23rd the Circleville Police Department responded with The Circleville Fire Department on a complaint of the smell of smoke and a possible fire at 205 West Main Street Apartment #3. Upon arrival, emergency responders found a male who had been assaulted and was on fire inside the apartment.
Circleville Fire transported the victim to Berger Ohio Health Hospital where he was then life-flighted to the Ohio State University Medical Center. The victim ultimately succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.
During the investigation, Officers gained information that led to Gregory A. Hardman as a potential suspect. Mr. Hardman was taken to the Circleville Police Department where he was questioned in reference to the crimes.
Enough evidence and statements were obtained to charge Mr. Hardman. Officers placed Mr. Hardman under arrest for Aggravated Murder, a felony of the 1st degree. The Ohio State Fire Marshal Office will have several Felony Arson charges as well.
The Circleville Police Department worked hand in hand with the Circleville Fire Department, The State Fire Marshal’s Office, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation from the Ohio Attorney General's office and the Fairfield - Athens Major Crimes Unit.
(Above photo of Gregory A. Hardman provided by Circleville Police Department)