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what happened pike county massacre ?

**What Happened in the Pike County Massacre?**

On the night of April 21-22, 2016, a brutal and senseless crime shook the small town of Piketon, Ohio. Eight members of the Rhoden family, including seven adults and one pregnant woman, were found shot to death in their homes. The killings, which became known as the Pike County Massacre, sent shockwaves throughout the state and beyond.

As investigators dug deeper, they discovered that the murders were orchestrated by the Wagner family, who were acquaintances of the Rhodens. The Wagners, including Billy, Angela, George, and Jake, were arrested and charged with the murders.

The investigation revealed that the Wagners had a long history of conflicts with the Rhodens, including a child custody battle and a dispute over a property. The motive behind the massacre was reportedly rooted in these conflicts and a desire for revenge.

The victims included Christopher Rhoden Jr., his pregnant fiancée Hanna Gizzi, and six other adults who were either family members or close friends of the Rhodens. The victims were all shot in the head at point-blank range, and their bodies were found in four separate locations.

The case drew national attention due to its sheer brutality and the devastating impact it had on the community. In 2021, Jake Wagner pleaded guilty to the murders and was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. His family members, Billy, Angela, and George, are still awaiting trial.

The Pike County Massacre serves as a sobering reminder of the senseless violence that can erupt when conflicts escalate and hatred takes root. It is a tragedy that will haunt the families and friends of the victims for years to come.

**Learn more:**

* [Pike County Shootings – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pike_County_shootings)
* [Pike County murders: What happened during the Pike County massacre?](https://www.wcpo.com/news/pike-county-massacre/timeline-a-full-history-of-the-pike-county-murders)
* [Pike County murders: Jake Wagner pleads guilty in Ohio family massacre](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2021/04/23/pike-county-jake-wagner-guilty-rhoden-family-ohio/7350482002)

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