Layton James Dean White, a 29-year-old male from Union City, Indiana, tragically passed away on December 19, 2021, in Gettysburg, Ohio. Layton was born on October 26, 1992, in Bradenton, Florida, and was known for his love of the outdoors, fishing, and riding dirt bikes. He was a 2012 graduate of Tri Village High School and worked as a lead supervisor at Fort Recovery Industries.
On the day of his death, Layton was involved in a confrontation with Eric J. Martin, a 24-year-old male from Dayton, Ohio. Witnesses reported seeing Martin shoot Layton before fleeing the scene. Martin was apprehended a few hours later in Troy, Ohio, and charged with murder. During his initial court appearance, Martin faced concerns about his history of fleeing and was held on a $150,000 bond. He later pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to 18 years in prison.
The Darke County Sheriff's Office conducted a thorough investigation into the incident, and Martin was found guilty of aggravated murder and burglary. The court also imposed a mandatory 3-year firearm specification charge. Martin's defense attorney expressed condolences to Layton's family, acknowledging the tragic loss they had suffered.
Layton's death deeply affected his family and friends, who remembered him for his contagious laugh, silly personality, and overall goofiness. He is survived by his parents, stepmother, children, siblings, and nieces and nephews. The community continues to mourn the loss of Layton and honor his memory through various memorial contributions and services.
