CANTON — Investigators say they are closer than ever to solving the 2011 murder of Dale Settle Jr., a 22-year-old University of Akron student who was shot and killed while attending a Bible study in Canton.
On Sept. 22, 2011, Settle was at a Bible study in the 600 block of Hazlett Avenue NW when two unidentified suspects approached him and tried to rob him at gunpoint. During the attempted robbery, one suspect shot Settle, who died at a local hospital.
This summer, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the U.S. Marshals Service raised the reward for information leading to the identification and arrest of those responsible to $25,000 — $15,000 from ATF and $10,000 from the Marshals Service.
"We believe there are individuals with information that could help solve this case," ATF area supervisor Bill Halusek said. "We hope this increased reward provides the incentive for someone to come forward and do the right thing."
Settle, a business student, had dreamed of founding a ministry combining business and faith. His father, Dale Settle Sr., and stepmother Michelle later established the Dale Settle Jr. Foundation to carry on that vision. As he lay dying, Settle prayed that forgiveness would come to his shooter, the family has said.
"With this renewed reward offer, ATF and the U.S. Marshals Service believe this senseless act of violence can still be brought to a successful resolution," ATF Special Agent in Charge Jorge A. Rosendo said. Anyone with information is urged to contact the ATF or Canton police.
— NewsForce Staff