BATH TOWNSHIP, Ohio — Three individuals have been arrested following a shooting at an Airbnb birthday party that left one young man dead and nine others injured. The incident occurred during a gathering that was reportedly promoted through social media, attracting a large crowd to the rental property.
Bath Township Police Chief Vito Sinopoli announced on Friday that 18-year-old Derquan Edwards and 19-year-old Jashawn Stewart face multiple charges including murder. A 16-year-old juvenile is also charged in connection with the case. The shooting claimed the life of 18-year-old Elijah Wells, who was shot multiple times and succumbed to his injuries days later.
When police arrived at the scene around midnight on November 2, they found chaos unfolding in the wake of the gunfire. Witnesses reported hearing numerous shots, prompting several 911 calls. Investigators estimate that between 250 and 300 attendees were present at the party when the shooting erupted. In addition to Wells, seven others sustained gunshot wounds, while two additional individuals were injured in the melee.
Evidence analysis played a pivotal role in identifying the suspects. The Bath Township Police utilized ballistic evidence and conducted interviews with witnesses to gather information. Authorities credited the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) system, which links ballistic data from law enforcement agencies, as crucial in connecting the dots. The investigation also benefited from an unrelated Akron case involving a stolen firearm, which helped lead authorities to Edwards and Stewart.
Both Edwards and Stewart have been charged with one count of murder and nine counts of felonious assault, which include specifications related to the use of firearms. The juvenile facing charges is accused of delinquency related to murder and assault in a similar context. Further charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.
Summit County Prosecutor Elliot Kolkovich expressed condolences to Wells’ family and condemned the violence, stating there is no place for gun-related crimes in the community. He pledged to collaborate with various agencies to pursue robust legal consequences for those involved in such acts.
Stewart made a court appearance Saturday morning, where a bond of $3 million was set. Edwards is scheduled for a hearing on Monday. Authorities are calling for anyone with information about the incident or attendees from the party to reach out to the BCI tip line.
The Bath Township shooting has shaken the community, prompting calls for increased dialogue around gun violence and public safety as family and friends mourn the tragic loss of a young life.