Tara Sinchuri, 52, a former Bhutanese refugee and owner of Everest Jewels & Clothing, was shot dead in Fairfield, Ohio, on October 20, 2026. Police are investigating the suspected robbery-homicide, while the FBI and ATF have offered assistance. No arrest has been announced.
FAIRFIELD, OHIO | OCTOBER 23, 2026
FAIRFIELD, Ohio: Tara Sinchuri, 52, a former Bhutanese refugee and owner of Everest Jewels & Clothing, was fatally shot during a suspected robbery in Fairfield, a city north of Cincinnati, on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
Fairfield police are investigating the killing as a robbery-homicide. As of October 23, no arrest had been announced and authorities had not publicly identified a suspect.
Fairfield Ohio jewelry store robbery
Police responded to reports of gunfire at 6679 Dixie Highway around 12:54 p.m. local time on October 20. Officers discovered Sinchuri dead inside his store.
Investigators examined surveillance footage from neighboring businesses as they searched for evidence. Authorities have not confirmed whether jewelry or other merchandise was stolen.
Bhutanese refugee builds a life in America
According to his older brother, Bal Sinchuri, the family fled Bhutan and spent years in refugee camps in Nepal before resettling in the United States.
Sinchuri arrived in America with his wife and children in 2012, initially settling in Buffalo, New York. He later operated a jewelry business in Kansas before moving to Fairfield.
Family members described him as generous and active in the local Hindu community. He is survived by his wife, Puspa, and their three children.
Gunfire strikes neighboring business
Andy Pfizenmayer, who works next door, said he heard gunshots and instructed employees to take cover.
A bullet penetrated the shared wall and entered his office. No injuries were reported at the neighboring business.
The shooting has shaken local residents and business owners, particularly because it occurred during regular business hours.
FBI offers assistance in homicide investigation
The FBI confirmed that it had contacted Fairfield police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and offered assistance.
Fairfield Police Chief Steve Maynard declined to release further investigative details. Authorities have not disclosed additional information about the suspected robber or established a motive beyond the suspected robbery.
Investigators continue seeking information that could identify the person responsible. Anyone with information is urged to contact Fairfield Police Sgt. Bryan Carnes at 513-867-6005.
