Police Praise Community Tips Leading to Arrests in Mansfield Murder Case

Mansfield authorities have arrested two individuals—a 25-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy—on first-degree murder charges related to the August 17 shooting death of 18-year-old Ja'Myrion Hobbs.

Yaounde Andrew Hawthorne, 25, was taken into custody Thursday evening by the Richland County Allied Special Operations Response Team (A.S.O.R.T.), the METRICH Enforcement Unit, and Mansfield Police Department officers. The arrest occurred around 6:30 p.m. at a residence on Maple Street in Mansfield. Hawthorne is currently held at the Richland County Jail with bail set at $5 million plus personal recognizance. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 28.

The 15-year-old suspect was apprehended separately and is also facing first-degree murder charges. Due to his age, further details have not been disclosed.

Mansfield Police Chief Jason Bammann emphasized the crucial role of community involvement in these arrests. He stated that valuable tips from residents provided detectives with the necessary information to secure arrest warrants. Bammann remarked, "This case demonstrates the impact that can be achieved when law enforcement and the community work together. By working together, we can continue to enhance the safety and security of our community."

The fatal incident occurred in an alley connecting Lexington Avenue and South Main Street. Bob Ball, chief investigator for the Richland County Coroner’s Office, confirmed that Hobbs, a Mansfield resident who had turned 18 in June, suffered multiple gunshot wounds. Bammann indicated that the killing appeared targeted, assuring the public that there is no immediate danger.

Hobbs' death marks Mansfield's first homicide in 2025. Reflecting on past challenges, Bammann noted that there have been times when police had to "beg" the community to come forward with information. He believes the recent surge in community cooperation signals growing frustration with youth gun violence. "I think it's just the community is tired of this gun violence with these juveniles," he said. "They're tired of seeing these kids get killed and killing each other. We probably wouldn't have cracked the case if it wasn't for all these leads."

The investigation remains active. Authorities encourage anyone with additional information to contact Detective Korey Kaufman at 419-755-9748. Bammann mentioned that while Hawthorne's name has surfaced in connection with other incidents, he has not been charged in any other murders at this time.