James D’Yago Hayden, a 29-year-old man from Columbus, Ohio, tragically lost his life on June 22, 2021. Hayden was killed following an argument at a liquor store on the Southeast Side of Columbus. The incident occurred at the Beverage Warehouse on East 11th Avenue. Witnesses reported that Hayden and 22-year-old Adam Manns got into a heated argument inside the store, which escalated when they stepped outside.
Manns, who was in the passenger seat of a white four-door vehicle, allegedly fired several rounds from a handgun at Hayden as the vehicle left the parking lot. Hayden was struck by at least one of the rounds and was taken to OhioHealth Grant Medical Center in critical condition, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Columbus police filed an arrest warrant for Manns in connection with Hayden's death. Manns was later charged with involuntary manslaughter. During the court proceedings, Manns pleaded guilty to the charge, and Franklin County Common Pleas Judge Jaiza Page sentenced him to a minimum of 18 years in prison. Manns expressed remorse for his actions and apologized to Hayden's family during the sentencing.
The loss of James D’Yago Hayden deeply affected his loved ones and the community. His wife, Porsha Hayden, described him as the life of the party with a heart of gold, and she shared how much he meant to her and their family. The court heard victim impact testimony from several family members who spoke through tears about the impact of Hayden's death on their lives.
The tragic incident highlights the devastating consequences of gun violence and the importance of conflict resolution. The community continues to remember and honor James D’Yago Hayden, whose life was cut short far too soon.
