Suspect Wanted for Georgia Homicide Apprehended in Ohio

On February 1, 2024, Davonte Lavonne Childs, aged 27, was apprehended by the U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF), Euclid Police Department, EDGE (Eastside Departments Group Enforcement) SWAT, and Ohio State Highway Patrol’s SRT. Childs, wanted by Sandy Springs Police Department in Fulton County, Georgia, was charged with homicide.

Georgia police reported that on August 17, 2021, Childs fatally shot Yemi Mabiaku in the back, with another person sustaining injuries but surviving. Warrants for Childs’ arrest were issued the following day.

Collaborative efforts between investigators in Georgia and Ohio over the past two and a half years led to intelligence indicating Childs’ presence in Euclid, Ohio. Childs was also featured as the Fugitive of the Week earlier this year.

In a late afternoon operation, NOVFTF members located Childs at a residence on Tungston Ave in Euclid. Childs brandished a handgun upon officers’ approach, prompting the response of Euclid Police, EDGE SWAT, and Ohio State Highway Patrol’s SRT. Childs surrendered without further incident, and two firearms were recovered from the residence.

Childs will remain in custody in Cleveland pending extradition to Georgia to face charges.

U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott emphasized the commitment of law enforcement to apprehend fugitives, stating, “Law enforcement never gave up on this case and the U.S. Marshals never gives up on finding their fugitives.”

Individuals with information regarding fugitives can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833) or submit a web tip. Rewards are available, and tipsters may remain anonymous. The U.S. Marshals can be followed on Twitter @USMSCleveland.

The NOVFTF – Cleveland Division comprises federal, state, and local agencies, including the U.S. Marshals Service, Cleveland Police Department, and others listed.