The Mansfield Division of Police patrol officers responded to the 300 block of Jennings Avenue at approximately 7:02AM this morning in reference to a “man down” call. Upon arrival, an unknown subject was located laying near 375 Jennings Avenue, dressed in all black, wearing a mask and obviously deceased. A firearm was observed near the body as well as other evidence of a shooting. The Richland County Coroner’s Office responded to the scene which was then processed for evidence.
The victim, later identified as 19-year-old Joseph A. Andrews Jr., had been reported as a “Missing Person” earlier that morning by his family. Prior to the victim being reported missing, a vehicle matching the description of the one the victim was known to drive had been found engulfed in flames at North Lake Park at approximately 12:44AM. Detectives are working to identify the owner of that vehicle but the fire damage has delayed their efforts.
Major Crimes detectives are working to find out what led to the shooting death as well as to identify a suspect(s). This is an active and fluid investigation and additional details will be released once they are available. We are asking that anyone who may have information in relation to this investigation or the Arson at North Lake Park, to call Major Crimes Detective Richard Clapp at (419) 755-9470 or Major Crimes at (419) 755-9724.