Insets, from left: Gary Franke (Halteman- Fett & Dyer Funeral Home) and John Thomas Scott (WBNS). Background: The home where Scott shot Franke to death (WCMH).
An Ohio resident, aged 45, is facing a prison sentence for the murder of an 81-year-old man, a crime that followed a yard work job and ended with the victim’s body hidden beneath brush in a nearby wooded area.
John Thomas Scott recently confessed to charges of murder, corpse abuse, and evidence tampering in connection with the death of Gary Franke. The incident took place at Franke’s home in Lancaster, about 30 miles southeast of Columbus. Scott’s sentencing, which could range from 18 years to life imprisonment, is to be determined at a future date.
According to a probable cause affidavit reviewed by Law&Crime, police in Lancaster responded to a missing person report early on August 9 at Franke’s residence on the 700 block of South Maple Street. Officers soon discovered Franke’s body, which had suffered a gunshot wound, in a wooded area on his property.
Investigators later uncovered that Scott had performed yard work for Franke the day before the murder. After being read his Miranda rights, Scott admitted to the crime, revealing that he intended to rob Franke after the yard work, which culminated in the fatal shooting. Scott initially fled but returned with his girlfriend, Holly McDaniel, to conceal Franke’s body.
Scott and McDaniel were apprehended the day following the murder. McDaniel faces charges of evidence tampering and obstructing justice, with her legal proceedings still underway.
Gary Franke was a cherished member of his community, known for his charitable nature and his kindness, such as offering neighborhood children rides on his golf cart, as reported by local NBC affiliate WCMH. He was also recognized for assisting those facing difficult circumstances.
“He would try to get them started back in their life, their credit right, get them started back and going again,” neighbor Troy Seiple told local CBS affiliate WBNS. “He was really proud about that.”
Franke’s obituary expanded on that notion.
“Known for his kindness and generosity, Gary often bought meals for those in need and provided them with work on his real estate properties. He believed deeply in second chances, even when they came with risk. Gary felt that everyone deserved the opportunity to turn their life around.”
Cops told WBNS that Franke knew the suspect for over 30 years.
A sentencing date has not yet been set for Scott.
