3 arrested in birthday party shooting at Airbnb that killed 18-year-old

BATH TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WOIO/Gray News) - Authorities in Ohio announced three arrests have been made in connection with a shooting during a birthday party at an Airbnb that left an 18-year-old man dead and nine other people injured.

Bath Township Police Chief Vito Sinopoli said Friday morning that officers have arrested 18-year-old Derquan Edwards and 19-year-old Jashawn Stewart on multiple charges, including murder. A 16-year-old boy is also facing charges.

Elijah Wells, 18, was shot eight times at the Nov. 2 party and died from his injuries days later. Seven other people were shot at the party, and two more were injured. Police say the two victims who were still hospitalized were released Thursday.

Officers responded to the Airbnb around midnight after multiple 911 calls reporting a shooting. Police believe a large group of teenagers arrived at the rental home after a social media post promoted the party. Soon after, officers say multiple rounds were fired inside the home, striking several people.

Investigators estimate 250 to 300 people attended the party.

Authorities developed suspects through analysis of crime scene evidence, including ballistic evidence, and numerous witness interviews, according to a release.

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost says the NIBIN system, a database that connects ballistic evidence from law enforcement agencies across the country, was key to finding the suspects.

Sinopoli says an Akron investigation into a stolen gun helped lead detectives to two of the people arrested.

Edwards and Stewart were each charged with one count of murder and nine counts of felonious assault. The 16-year-old suspect was charged with one count of delinquency to commit murder and nine counts of delinquency to commit felonious assault.

Each charge also includes a firearm specification, and additional charges are anticipated.

“The loss of Elijah Wells is tragic and senseless, and I want to extend my condolences to his loved ones,” said Summit County Prosecutor Elliot Kolkovich in the release. "I have no tolerance for gun violence in Summit County. We will continue to work with local, state and federal agencies to ensure that anyone who commits a violent crime with a gun will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

Stewart appeared in court Saturday morning for an arraignment hearing, where his bond was set at $3 million. A hearing for Edwards is scheduled for Monday.

Sinopoli is asking anyone who attended the party or has information to contact the BCI tip line at intel@ohioattorneygeneral.gov or at 855-224-6446.