Steven Mottie Jr., a 35-year-old man from Greenfield, Ohio, tragically died on July 4, 2017. His death was unexpected and occurred at his home. Steven was born on December 31, 1981, in Washington Court House, Ohio, to Steven E. and Debbie Roberts Mottie. He is survived by his father, Steven E. Mottie, his son Trevor Sutton, his paternal grandmother Lois Mottie, his brother Mathew Mottie, and several other family members.
The circumstances surrounding Steven Mottie Jr.'s death were part
of a violent crime spree carried out by Jeffrey Ryan Holsinger. On the evening of July 4, 2017, Holsinger engaged in a series of criminal activities that included assaulting Steven Mottie Jr.'s father, Steven Mottie Sr., and robbing him. Holsinger then shot and killed Steven Mottie Jr. in the bathroom of a home near Greenfield. Following the murder, Holsinger kidnapped and assaulted Steven Mottie Sr., taking his money and debit card before fleeing the scene.
Holsinger's crime spree did not end there. He continued his violent actions by shooting and killing Paul Robertson, a 79-year-old man from Clarksburg, Ohio, and assaulting Jessie Lytle, who survived the attack. Holsinger was eventually apprehended after leading law enforcement on a pursuit through multiple counties. He was arrested near Columbus late on July 4, 2017.
In the aftermath of these tragic events, Jeffrey Ryan Holsinger was sentenced to 25.9 years to life in prison for the murder of Steven Mottie Jr. and aggravated robbery. He also received additional sentences for other charges related to his crime spree. Holsinger publicly apologized to the victims' families and expressed remorse for his actions.
The case was prosecuted and closed within 72 days, thanks to the diligent efforts of Highland County investigators. The community and the families of the victims continue to mourn the loss of Steven Mottie Jr. and Paul Robertson, and seek justice for the harm caused by Holsinger's actions.
Steven Mottie Jr.'s death has left a lasting impact on his family and the community, and his memory is honored by those who knew and loved him.
