COLUMBUS, OHIO: Tragic news emerged from Ohio as beloved comedian Ron Sexton, 52, was found dead at a Holiday Inn Express. Local authorities have launched a criminal investigation into his death, with his alleged mistress named in the police report. Sexton, who was set to perform his Donnie Baker stand-up act in Dayton, tragically died, leaving fans and fellow comedians deeply mourning his untimely death. The Sun has obtained exclusive access to the police report, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding his death.
According to local authorities, Sexton was discovered dead at a Holiday Inn Express on Friday afternoon, July 21, approximately an hour before his scheduled gig that night. The police report identifies his alleged mistress as an OIV (offender/involved/victim), and it includes four additional witnesses, possibly motel workers from the Ohio area. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death remains ongoing.
Who is Ron Sexton's wife?
Ron Sexton, known for his role as the voice of Donnie Baker on the legendary comedic radio show 'The Bob and Tom Show', was married to Tracey Horen Sexton. While they were private about their marriage, various sources noted that they shared a happy and supportive relationship. Tracey, an active presence on social media, often posted pictures with Sexton. The couple had five children together: Eric, Alex, Abigail, Aliah, and Ila. Tracey, is listed as his next of kin in the police documents.
'Ron was so much more than Donnie Baker'
Tracey released a heartfelt statement after her husband's passing. "Though his talent was unparalleled, Ron was so much more than Donnie Baker. He was a loving husband, father, son, friend, and coach. We know he’s at peace and are proud to know he will continue to make people around the world laugh forever. We appreciate all of the love and support," the statement read. The mother of four added that despite his popularity, the comedian "didn't like attention." The grieving wife also thanked all of her husband's fans, as she concluded, "I appreciate all of you who are taking the time to honor him. He was one of a kind."
Ron Sexton was previously in a near-death experience
Months prior to his unexpected death, Sexton found himself involved in a shooting incident when the husband of his alleged mistress fired nine shots into his rental car, as per court documents. The comedian recounted to the police that on December 11, 2022, after his performance in Portland, Indiana, he contacted a woman referred to as Ms Berkemeier and asked to meet her at a local bar in Indianapolis. Despite both being married to other people, Sexton called her his girlfriend, according to court records.
After meeting at the Northside Bar and Grill for around thirty minutes, they went their separate ways in different vehicles.
Later, when Sexton drove to a parking garage near his hotel, he noticed a sedan following closely behind him. The vehicle pulled up on his left, and the driver, identified as Ms. Berkemeier's husband Paul, opened fire. The comedian recognized Paul, whom he had seen on multiple occasions before. Sexton's rental car was hit at least nine times, with the rear window being shot out, according to police records. The shooting left Sexton with injuries to his ear and cheek consistent with shattered glass hitting his face. Prior to the shooting, Sexton had filed a police report against Paul in October 2021, alleging an attack and threats against him and his family, as reported by WTHR. Ms Berkemeier confirmed Sexton's account, stating that her husband became angry upon learning she had left their home near Shelbyville to meet up with Sexton.
How did Ron Sexton die?
As of now, the initial autopsy conducted by the medical examiner's office revealed "no significant external trauma" in Sexton's case. However, the complete results, including toxicology reports, are still pending. "They believe this was a natural death as opposed to an overdose, but they are waiting for the toxicology to come back to determine if there was anything significant in his system that could have been at potentially lethal levels, versus a cardiac event or something to that effect," they added. The investigation is ongoing, and the Harrison Police Department is urging anyone with potential information related to Sexton's death to come forward and contact them.
