Jaidon Michael Mangas was an 18-year-old from Findlay, Ohio, described by his family as close to his siblings and planning big steps in life. He had just celebrated his birthday the day before he died, was a Findlay High School student who worked at Plato’s Closet, and had played wrestling and football for schools in Pemberville and Swanton. Family members said he was planning to propose to his girlfriend, Lily, and move into his own apartment in the days ahead.

On the evening of January 4, 2025, Jaidon was found shot in an alley on Congress Street in Toledo. First responders arrived around 6:13 p.m. and took him to the University of Toledo Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. The Lucas County Coroner’s Office ruled the death a homicide, citing gunshot wounds to the torso and foot.

Investigators reported the shooting occurred during a planned gun transaction. Authorities said Jaidon met with 16-year-old Michael Silvera in the alley; Silvera allegedly shot Jaidon and fled with his money. A few days later Toledo Police arrested Silvera and booked him into the Juvenile Justice Center on a murder charge.

If anyone saw activity on Congress Street that evening or knew about arrangements related to a gun transaction, the Toledo Police Major Crimes Unit may want to hear from you.