South Charleston, Ohio — An Ohio jury has convicted an 83-year-old man in the killing of an Uber driver who was fatally shot after being mistakenly identified as part of a phone scam targeting the homeowner.
William J. Brock was found guilty of murder and related charges in connection with the March 2024 death of 61-year-old Lo-Letha Toland-Hall outside his residence in South Charleston. The verdict followed a trial that examined how a series of scam phone calls led to a tragic misunderstanding.
What Happened
According to prosecutors, Brock had been receiving threatening calls from individuals demanding about $12,000, falsely claiming the money was needed to secure bond for a relative. Believing he was about to be robbed, Brock armed himself at home.
Investigators said Toland-Hall, an Uber driver, had unknowingly been drawn into the same scam. She was instructed by the scammers to go to Brock’s home to collect a package for delivery. Authorities stressed that she had no knowledge of the threats made to Brock and was simply carrying out what appeared to be a routine job.
When Toland-Hall arrived at the residence, Brock shot her. Prosecutors stated that she was unarmed and did not pose any danger.
Court’s Decision
The jury found Brock guilty of:
• Murder
• Felonious assault
• Kidnapping
He is expected to be sentenced later this week.
During the trial, Brock’s defense team argued that he acted in self-defense, citing the threatening nature of the scam calls and Brock’s fear for his own safety and that of his family. Prosecutors rejected that argument, maintaining that there was no evidence Toland-Hall was involved in the scam or posed an imminent threat.
Broader Implications
Following the verdict, the county prosecutor described the case as a stark example of the real-world harm caused by financial scams. He noted that both the victim’s family and Brock’s family have suffered irreversible loss, while those who orchestrated the scam have yet to be identified or arrested.
Authorities continue to warn the public—particularly older adults—to report scam calls to law enforcement and avoid acting on threats or payment demands made over the phone.
Source: Africa Publicity
