The father of Brian Cofer, who was killed during a 2024 Halloween party in Summit County, spoke out after the Springfield Township Police Department arrested 23-year-old Terrence Lamar Willliams of Canton on Friday.
Williams was charged with first-degree murder and second-degree assault in connection to the murder.
"What goes through my mind is how much I miss him," said Brian's father. "You know, I love him."
Brian's father told News 5 that his son was kind, caring, happy and had the most infectious smile.
"I'm gonna miss those days," Brian's father said through tears. "I'm gonna miss building more memories with him."
A shooting at a Halloween party left 39-year-old Cofer dead and another person injured on October 27, 2024, according to Springfield Township police.
Springfield Township PD launched an investigation immediately after the incident in collaboration with the Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
Chief of Police Jack Simone said the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Force issued an arrest warrant Friday for the 23-year-old.
Cofer's father spoke to News 5 last December, seeking justice for his son.
"We recognize that these arrests cannot undo the grief and suffering caused by this senseless act of violence," said Simone in a statement. "However, we hope this will take a step towards some measure of closure and comfort to the Cofer family and everyone affected. Our officers left no stone unturned in their pursuit of justice, and we remain committed to seeing this case through."
Brian's dad told News 5 he was especially thankful to Detective Sgt. Troyer.
"I feel so much better knowing that we have this guy off the street," said Brian's father. "My son's life was taken on his son's birthday, so that's a day we have to live with forever and ever...I'm not supposed to be living my life without my son."
Brian's father, his grandson and family are looking forward to court and justice for Brian's death.
Simone asked anyone with any additional information regarding the incident to contact Detective Sgt. Troyer at 330-734-4106.
