Three individuals have been detained and face charges following the Nov. 2 fatal shooting at a birthday gathering in Bath Township, which claimed the life of an 18-year-old from Akron. The Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, along with local law enforcement authorities, announced the charges against two adults and a juvenile in a press conference on Monday morning, information that came directly from Yost's office.
During the announcement, Yost praised investigators for their dedication to the case, stating, "Today’s announcement was made possible by the hard work of investigators who were determined to bring these perpetrators to justice," according to the Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost's office. Bath Township Police Chief Vito Sinopoli also expressed his sentiments on the incident, "This incident was a tragic and senseless act of violence," and recognized the community and fellow agencies for their roles in the investigation.
The victim, Elijah Well, suffered eight gunshot wounds at the party, which was attended by an estimated 250 to 300 people. In addition to Wells' death, nine other victims sustained injuries during the incident. The suspects were identified through crime-scene evidence analysis, witness interviews and are now facing charges, including murder and felonious assault, as detailed in the Ohio Attorney General's news release.
Those charged in connection with the fatal shooting are Derquan Edwards, 18, Jashawn Stewart, 19, each facing one count of murder and nine counts of felonious assault, and a 16-year-old male whose charges fall under delinquency for murder and assault. Each of these charges carries an additional firearm specification, with further charges anticipated. Summit County Prosecutor Elliot Kolkovich made his stance clear: "The loss of Elijah Wells is tragic and senseless," and he vowed to prosecute violent crimes with firearms to the fullest extent of the law.
While the investigation is ongoing, authorities encourage anyone who may have more information related to the event to come forward by contacting BCI at 855-BCI-OHIO. As the legal process unfolds, it has been noted that the defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, reminding the public of the due process rights afforded to all. The press conference is also available for viewing on the Attorney General’s Facebook page.
