Small Town Big Murder:The Darius Ford Case

Darius Markum Ford Sr., often referred to as DM, was a prominent figure in Zanesville, Ohio. Born on January 10, 1958, in Bellaire, Ohio, DM was deeply involved in his community, known for his dedication to martial arts and local sports. He was a self-employed Kung Fu instructor and taught Tae-Bo classes across Zanesville, Cambridge, Newark, and Coshocton. Additionally, he served as the offensive coordinator for the Muskingum Valley Cobras, a semi-pro football team, and was active in coaching youth teams in track, soccer, and basketball [[❞]](https://deathliesalibis.podbean.com/e/unsolved-tragedy-the-murder-of-darius-ford/) [[❞]](https://deathliesalibis.podbean.com/).

 

On July 11, 2001, DM was tragically murdered near a public hunting area in Muskingum County. Despite being shot multiple times and paralyzed from the waist down, he managed to crawl 40 yards to his car before succumbing to his injuries. The investigation revealed blood, fingerprints, and unknown male DNA at the scene, but the primary suspect, Stacey Coffey, remained a contentious figure in the case. The complexity of the evidence and conflicting testimonies have left the case unsolved, maintaining a cloud of mystery over the circumstances of his death [[❞]](https://deathliesalibis.podbean.com/) [[❞]](https://www.alumniclass.com/zanesville-high-school-blue-devils-oh/in-memory-view/?p=49323).

 

DM Ford's legacy continues through his family and the community he touched. His contributions to local sports and martial arts have left a lasting impact, and the quest for justice in his case persists as a poignant reminder of the unresolved tragedy [[❞]](https://deathliesalibis.podbean.com/e/unsolved-tragedy-the-murder-of-darius-ford/) [[❞]](https://www.alumniclass.com/zanesville-high-school-blue-devils-oh/in-memory-view/?p=49323).

 

For more detailed information, you can refer to the sources such as [Death Lies & Alibis](https://deathliesalibis.podbean.com/e/unsolved-tragedy-the-murder-of-darius-ford/) and [Zanesville High School Alumni](https://www.alumniclass.com/zanesville-high-school-blue-devils-oh/in-memory-view/?p=49323).