In a tragic development, Columbus Police have confirmed the identities of the two individuals found dead in a shooting incident that occurred late Monday night. The victims, Nicole Pannell, 41, also known by her previous name Nikki Dortch, and Kristian Hives, 31, were discovered at a residence on Pine Rise Court in the Northern Woods neighborhood.

The Columbus Police Department has classified the incident as a potential murder-suicide. According to authorities, the bodies were located in distinct areas of the property. Pannell was found deceased from gunshot wounds in the basement of the home, while Hives was discovered unresponsive in the backyard.

The incident was reported around 11:15 p.m. on Monday. Law enforcement officials are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting. At this stage, details remain limited, but preliminary findings suggest that the shooting may have resulted from an intimate altercation.

Pannell’s death has been met with an outpouring of grief from her family and friends. On social media, her relatives have expressed their shock and sorrow over the loss. One relative posted a heartfelt tribute, stating, “I got the call that my cousin was murdered in Columbus, I only wish I could have done something! Damn!! What a cowardly act!! My Beautiful Cousin! 💔💔💔Nikki Dortch.”

Nicole Pannell was a well-known figure in the Columbus community. Friends and family remember her as a kind and loving person, whose life was tragically cut short. Kristian Hives, while less publicly known, has been described as someone who struggled with personal issues. The circumstances of the shooting are under close scrutiny as investigators attempt to piece together the events leading up to the tragic incident.

Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the motive behind the shooting or the relationship between Pannell and Hives. The case has been handed over to the Columbus Division of Police’s homicide unit, which will work to uncover more information and determine the exact nature of the incident.

In the wake of the shooting, the community has been left in mourning, grappling with the loss of two lives and the suddenness of the event. As the investigation continues, Columbus residents are hoping for answers and seeking support in the face of such a profound tragedy.