Jayden Nelson, a 19-year-old Ohio man found dead on the side of a road in Ohio Township early Sunday morning, has been ruled a homicide by the Hamilton County Coroner's Office, authorities confirmed Wednesday.
Background
Nelson was discovered at approximately 4 a.m. on Sunday along a roadway in Ohio Township, according to state troopers. Initial reports indicated investigators believed Nelson was the victim of a hit-and-run crash. However, the Hamilton County Coroner's Office determination on Wednesday marked a significant shift in the understanding of Nelson's death.
Joshua Lavoy, identified as Nelson's 19-year-old roommate, was arrested on Tuesday in connection with the investigation. Court documents allege Lavoy discarded evidence related to the case, including his cellular phone, and deleted social media accounts believed to be connected to Nelson's death.
The Investigation
Lavoy has been charged with tampering with evidence and withholding from investigators, according to court documents. The charges stem from allegations that Lavoy deliberately disposed of evidence and provided false information to law enforcement regarding other individuals believed to be connected to the investigation.
Ohio State Highway Patrol, which initially responded to the scene, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Nelson's death. It remains unclear whether the coroner's homicide determination changes the initial theory that Nelson may have been killed in a hit-and-run incident.
The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the exact cause and circumstances of Nelson's death.
Key Takeaways
- Jayden Nelson, 19, was found dead on the side of a road in Ohio Township at about 4 a.m. Sunday
- Hamilton County Coroner's Office ruled the death a homicide on Wednesday
- Joshua Lavoy, Nelson's roommate, charged with tampering with evidence and withholding from investigators
- Court documents allege Lavoy discarded his phone, deleted social media, and lied to police
- Initial investigators believed Nelson was the victim of a hit-and-run crash
- Lavoy was arrested Tuesday, one day before the homicide ruling was announced
What's Next
Ohio State Highway Patrol detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Nelson's death. The investigation may determine whether the homicide ruling aligns with or diverges from the initial hit-and-run theory. Court dates for Lavoy have not yet been set. Community members have organized a benefit event for Nelson's family at Roc's House of Billiards, one of his favorite local venues, scheduled for Sunday.
Roc's House of Billiards owner Amanda Johnson told reporters Nelson was a regular customer who came to play pool. 'It just felt right to offer up our place for him,' Johnson said.