COLUMBUS, Ohio — A 22-year-old man wanted in connection with a double murder in Mansfield has been captured in Columbus.
Authorities say Ja’Vontae Jones was arrested by members of the U.S. Marshals Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team around 9:30 a.m. Wednesday at a home in the 1500 block of Alumcrest Lane.
The case dates back to June 8, 2023, when authorities responded to the scene of a crash and shots fired in the area of West 4th Street and North Lane Park in Mansfield. That’s where both 18-year-old victims -- identified as Jonathan Ash and Nathan Carroll -- were found shot to death.
A warrant was issued for Jones’ arrest in December and turned over to the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force to investigate where he may be hiding.
Jones, who was taken into custody without incident, is currently being held in the Franklin County Jail where he awaits extradition to Mansfield.
“Dedicated police work by the Mansfield Police Department and outstanding teamwork across the state of Ohio is what will continue to ensure justice for the community in Mansfield as well as across the state of Ohio,” said U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott.
Mansfield police are asking anybody with additional information about this investigation to call Major Crimes Detective Terry Butler at 419-755-9791.
"We are hopeful that this arrest will not only provide some relief to the victim’s families but also, help alleviate any additional community fears," Mansfield police said in a press release. "We ask that you respect the privacy of the families involved at this time."
As a reminder, anybody with information concerning a wanted fugitive can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833). Reward money is available, and tipsters may remain anonymous.
