PIKESVILLE, Maryland — A 34-year-old man from Baltimore County has been charged with the murder of an 81-year-old man at his home in November. Tavon Smith was taken into custody on Thursday by Baltimore County police in connection with the death of Jaward Hannah. Smith is facing charges of first-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm with a felony conviction.
The incident took place on November 10, 2023, when police responded to a report of a past personal robbery at the 3400 block of Kelox Road. Upon arrival, officers found Hannah handcuffed and lying in a pool of blood inside his home in the Powhatan Farms community. Investigation revealed that Hannah’s pockets had been turned inside out and his wallet was missing. Hannah was found to have suffered a fatal gunshot wound to his head from a .22 caliber handgun.
According to a confidential source, during the week of the homicide, Smith mentioned his intention to go to his wife’s friend’s house to confront the man and ultimately kill him due to issues in their relationship. The source also reported seeing Smith in possession of a gun, handcuffs, and a police badge. Subsequently, a search warrant executed on Smith’s home led to the recovery of his iPhone, which provided critical data for the investigation.
As the investigation progressed, police found evidence linking Smith to the crime, including a photo of a Smith & Wesson 22 caliber handgun, and his DNA in Hannah’s pocket. In an interview at the county’s headquarters, Smith admitted to being outside of Hannah’s home early in the morning on the day he was killed, but he denied any involvement in the murder. Records show that Smith had previously been convicted of first- and second-degree assault, and he is currently being held without bond at the Baltimore County Detention Center.
Neighbors described Hannah as a “pillar in the community,” having lived in his home on Kelox Road for more than 50 years. The case has sent shockwaves through the community as they mourn the loss of a beloved member. As the investigation continues, it remains a tragic reminder of the potential dangers lurking in seemingly safe neighborhoods in Pikesville, Maryland.
In summary, Tavon Smith has been charged with the murder of 81-year-old Jaward Hannah in Baltimore County. The heinous nature of the crime has left the community in mourning, reflecting on the loss of a long-time resident who was deeply cherished by his neighbors.