An Ohio man has been sentenced to 21 years to life in prison for fatally shooting an 18-year-old who was trying to address concerns about his younger brother being bullied.
Man Sentenced in Teen’s Death
Domynic Elahee, 38, was convicted of two counts of murder and two counts of felonious assault in connection with the May 2025 shooting death of 18-year-old Jaeden Smith.
A Hamilton County judge sentenced him on Monday to 21 years to life in prison.
Teen Went to Discuss Bullying
According to prosecutors, Smith went to Elahee’s apartment in Forest Park, Ohio, with his 7-year-old brother to discuss bullying involving Elahee’s son.
Authorities said Smith was unarmed and intended to have a conversation about the issue.
Shooting Happened at Apartment Door
Investigators said Elahee fired a handgun through the doorway of his apartment, striking Smith in the chest.
The teenager was rushed to a hospital but later died from his injuries.
Witnesses, including Smith’s younger brother and Elahee’s daughter, were present during the incident.
Family Remembers Teen as a Protector
During sentencing, Smith’s family described him as a caring brother who was standing up for his younger sibling.
Prosecutors argued the shooting was unnecessary and preventable, while the defense claimed Elahee believed Smith was armed. Evidence presented at trial showed Smith did not have a weapon.
The judge called the shooting a “senseless killing” before imposing the sentence.
