AKRON Mother And Son Obituary Akron, OH Shot Dead: Cherish Resident Has Died In A Tragic

A tragic shooting in Akron, Ohio, has claimed the lives of a mother and her young son, leaving the community in shock and mourning. The incident unfolded Saturday night near 30 West Wilbeth Road, when reports of gunfire prompted multiple 911 calls around 8:10 p.m.

Authorities say that as officers responded, they located a crashed SUV on Hemlock Street that had struck trees and caught fire. Inside the vehicle, 12-year-old Jericho L. Mangual was found with a gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene. His mother, 47-year-old Tania Mangual, had also been shot while driving. She was transported to Cleveland Clinic Akron General Medical Center, where she later died from her injuries. A 2-year-old child in the back seat was unharmed and taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation.

Police identified 28-year-old Brandon T. Casto as the suspect after receiving key information from a wounded witness who had managed to escape the scene. A search of a residence connected to him reportedly uncovered firearms, gun components, and a significant amount of ammunition. Authorities later tracked him to Nelsonville, where he surrendered to law enforcement.

Casto is currently being held in the Southeast Regional Jail and faces multiple charges, including aggravated murder and felonious assault. Investigators have not yet disclosed a motive or clarified any connection between him and the victims. The case remains under active investigation.

The loss of Jericho and Tania has deeply affected the Akron community. Neighbors described hearing rapid gunfire followed by the arrival of emergency responders. A growing memorial of flowers and stuffed animals now marks the site, honoring the lives lost and reflecting the grief of a community grappling with a senseless act of violence. Local officials have also expressed their condolences, emphasizing the devastating impact such tragedies have on families and neighborhoods.