Jawaun Hurst was 20 when he was found shot multiple times, including in the stomach, in a wooded lot on LaBelle Avenue on Youngstown’s south side on July 31, 2020. Neighbors reported hearing arguing and gunshots before he was discovered. He was taken to St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, where he died of his injuries.

Police and arson investigators were called after a fire was reported at a nearby house a few hours later; that fire was ruled arson and investigators are looking into whether it is connected to the shooting. No arrests have been made and the investigation remains open.

Jawaun’s family and friends describe him as kind and helpful, and the community has been deeply affected by his death. If anyone has information about the shooting or the subsequent arson, please come forward to assist the ongoing investigation.