Yarnell C. "Ya-Ya" Green Jr., a 32-year-old African American male from Youngstown, OH, tragically passed away on September 18, 2022, at St. Elizabeth Healthcare Center in Youngstown. Green was known for his respectful and loving nature, and he was an overachiever who excelled in basketball, boxing, and barbering. He was also a dedicated father to three children and a beloved member of his community.
Green's death occurred after an altercation at O'Donnold's Irish Pub on West Federal
Street in downtown Youngstown. According to testimony from his girlfriend, Ashley Pratt, Green and his companion were asked to leave the bar following an argument with Johnny Serrano Jr., 24. As they walked toward Hazel Street, Serrano allegedly shot Green seven times, resulting in his death. Pratt, who was with Green at the time, described the incident as sudden and shocking, with Green saying "Someone's shooting" before collapsing.
Following the incident, Johnny Serrano Jr. was arrested and charged with aggravated murder. During the trial, Pratt provided key testimony, recounting the events leading up to the shooting. Despite the prosecution's recommendation of an 11 to 15-year sentence, Green's family expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome, feeling that justice had not been fully served. Serrano's defense argued that the shooting was in self-defense, but the jury ultimately convicted him on reduced charges.
The loss of Yarnell Green Jr. has deeply affected his family and community. His mother, Harriet Blair, and his children have spoken out about the pain and grief they continue to endure. Green's sister, Shayla Blair, emphasized that while his physical presence is gone, his soul lives on through the love and memories shared by those who knew him.
The case has drawn significant attention in Youngstown, with many calling for a more severe punishment for Serrano. The trial and its outcome have highlighted the ongoing challenges of achieving justice in cases of violent crime and the impact such events have on families and communities.
