Four people, including a 15-year-old, are facing murder charges after an 18-year-old who had just graduated high school was shot and killed earlier this week, according to authorities.
Sir Ethan-Dupree Jones, a recent graduate of Hiram High School’s Class of 2026, was fatally shot Wednesday in what officials describe as a drug deal gone wrong. Jones had reportedly gone to buy a marijuana vape when the encounter turned deadly. He died at the scene.
By Thursday, four suspects were in custody: Monsour Darwish, 17; Muhamad Rabeea Darwish, 19; Mohammad Basem Khatib, 20; and a 15-year-old who, despite his age, is being charged as an adult.
All four face a long list of charges, including felony murder, malice murder, aggravated assault, aggravated battery, tampering with evidence, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.
Jones’s family is remembering him as the oldest of three siblings, a devoted big brother, a skilled home cook, and someone who lit up every room he entered. He had recently set his sights on a welding career, with his whole future still ahead of him.
In a statement, the family thanked law enforcement for what they called a fast and thorough response in identifying and arresting the suspects.
They also used the moment to speak out against the broader toll of gun violence on young people, saying no argument or disagreement should ever cost someone their life — and that too many families are being left to grieve children who should still be here.
A funeral date has not yet been announced. The family says they are leaning on their faith and community as they push for justice, asking the public to keep them in their prayers during this time.
The investigation is still active, and it is unclear whether additional details or charges may emerge as the case develops.
