In Loving Memory of Tania Mangual and Jericho Mangual
Tania Mangual and Jericho Mangual Death, Obituary: The city of Akron is grappling with the heartbreaking loss of Tania Mangual and her 12-year-old son, Jericho Mangual, whose lives were tragically taken in a senseless act of violence on the evening of March 28, 2026. Their passing has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of their family, friends, and the broader community, a reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring need for love and compassion.
On that tragic Saturday night, at approximately 8:10 p.m., officers with the Akron Police Department responded to reports of a shooting near 30 West Wilbeth Road. Among the brave individuals who helped authorities piece together the events was a 49-year-old woman who had narrowly escaped the scene. Her courage in coming forward and providing detectives with vital information led to the identification of the suspect, 28-year-old Brandon T. Casto, who has since been taken into custody.
When officers arrived at the scene, they found a vehicle that had crashed into the tree line on Hemlock Street, partially engulfed in flames. Inside, Jericho Mangual, 12, had sustained a gunshot wound and, despite the rapid response of emergency personnel, was pronounced deceased at the scene. His mother, Tania Mangual, 47, had also been shot and was transported to Cleveland Clinic – Akron General Medical Center, where she tragically succumbed to her injuries. A 2-year-old sibling, fortunately unharmed, was taken to Akron Children’s Hospital as a precaution.
Detectives from the Akron Police Major Crimes Unit and Crime Scene Unit meticulously processed the scene and later executed a search warrant at an apartment connected to the suspect. The search yielded multiple firearms, firearm accessories, and a significant cache of ammunition. Investigators determined that Brandon T. Casto had considered fleeing the area but ultimately surrendered to authorities in Meigs County, Ohio. He is currently held at the Southeast Regional Jail in Nelsonville, facing charges of two counts of aggravated murder and two counts of felonious assault.
Tania Mangual will be remembered as a devoted mother and a woman of warmth, resilience, and love. Her dedication to her children and the impact she had on everyone around her will never be forgotten. Jericho Mangual, with his bright curiosity and spirited nature, brought joy and laughter into the lives of family and friends. Their lives, though tragically cut short, leave a lasting legacy of love, connection, and family.
The community of Akron has come together in grief, honoring Tania and Jericho while offering support to their family during this devastating time. Memorials and services are being planned to celebrate their lives, cherish their memories, and reflect on the love they shared with all who knew them.
While no legal outcome can undo this tragedy, the courage of witnesses and the tireless efforts of law enforcement ensure that justice is being pursued. Tania and Jericho’s story is a reminder of the importance of compassion, vigilance, and support within our communities.
May Tania Mangual and Jericho Mangual rest in eternal peace. Their memory will be forever cherished, their love eternally remembered, and their impact indelibly felt by all who knew them.
