[dateline] -- Police have arrested the twin brother of 17-year-old Denis Lewis, who was shot and killed while trying to protect his mother during a home invasion.
Lewis was killed on Jan. 18 during the invasion at the Lewis residence on Loretta Avenue on the city's northeast side, NBC 4 reported.
Police confirmed that 18-year-old Derris Lewis, the victim's twin brother, was arrested in connection with his death.
Police said that during the home invasion, the masked intruders woke the family and began making demands. After one of the men threatened his mother, Lewis struggled with one of the intruders. During the struggle, Lewis was shot. He died as a result of his injuries.
Just hours after Denis' death, Derris spoke with NBC 4.
"I just have to be strong. I gotta be the older one now. He was 20 seconds apart. I gotta be the older one now to help the family," he said.
Derris went to Columbus police headquarters voluntarily on Wednesday morning for an interview. After several hours of questioning, he was arrested.
Police said he did not confess, but that physical evidence linked Derris to the crime. Investigators would not say whether Derris pulled the trigger, but he is facing two counts of kidnapping, one count of aggravated murder and two counts of aggravated robbery.
According to investigators, police found physical evidence connecting Derris Lewis to the crime. Police said the teenager has been fairly cooperative with investigators.
Residents in the community were outraged at Lewis' death, and a $5,000 reward was issued for tips received by Feb. 20, 2008, leading to the arrest or indictment of the persons responsible.
Students, school staff and neighbors are shocked, along with community leaders who have demanded the city take swift action on the high-profile case.
The Lewis family had no comment on Wednesday.
According to police, the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 614-645-4730.
Lewis was a well-liked student at Columbus' East High School, who was a member of the band.
Stay with NBC 4 and refresh nbc4i.com for additional information.
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Jan. 18, 2008: Family, Friends Mourn Teen's Death
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Jan. 28, 2008: Residents Ask For Answers In Teen's Murder
Feb. 10, 2008: Reward Offered For Tips In Lewis Murder
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