C&P Newswire
AKRON, Ohio — A quiet Akron neighborhood was shattered by violence Saturday night after Tania Mangual, 47, and her 12-year-old son, Jericho L. Mangual, were fatally shot in a heartbreaking incident that has left the community in mourning.
According to Akron Police Lt. Michael Murphy, officers responded to multiple 911 calls around 8:10 p.m. reporting gunfire near West Wilbeth Road. When police arrived, they discovered a vehicle that had crashed into a tree and caught fire. Inside, they found young Jericho Mangual, who was pronounced dead at the scene. His mother, Tania Mangual, who had been driving, was transported to a local hospital where she later succumbed to her injuries.
Authorities identified the suspect as Brandon T. Casto, 28, who now faces multiple felony charges, including two counts of aggravated murder and two counts of felonious assault.
Investigators say the incident unfolded rapidly, with one witness reporting she fled after shots were fired. Detectives were able to quickly identify Casto, who later turned himself in with the assistance of law enforcement in Meigs County.
Police Chief Brian Harding described the घटना as a “senseless act of violence” that has deeply impacted the Akron community. Neighbors echoed that sentiment, remembering Jericho as a kind, respectful young boy and Tania as a trusted and caring presence in the neighborhood.
A 2-year-old child who was also in the vehicle at the time of the shooting was not injured and was taken to a local hospital as a precaution.
As the Mangual family grieves an unimaginable loss, community members are organizing vigils and offering support. Local schools and organizations have also stepped in to provide counseling services for those affected.
This tragic case underscores the continuing toll of gun violence across Northeast Ohio, where families like the Manguals are left to cope with devastating loss.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information to contact the Akron Police Department as the investigation remains ongoing.
