Caleb Allen Barber, a 19-year-old male from Mansfield, Ohio, tragically died on June 17, 2021. He was shot by Austin Richard Wheatcraft, 21, after Wheatcraft found Barber in bed with his girlfriend. Barber was transported to OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital but succumbed to his injuries. The incident occurred at a multiple dwelling unit in the 900 block of Ashland Road.
Wheatcraft initially faced charges of felonious assault but was later charged with murder.
He turned himself in to law enforcement and claimed that he shot Barber in self-defense after Barber allegedly assaulted him. The firearm used in the shooting, a tan Glock pistol, was recovered by deputies. Wheatcraft was arraigned on the murder charge at the Mansfield Municipal Court.
In March 2022, Wheatcraft pleaded guilty to the aggravated murder of Caleb Barber and was sentenced to 28 years to life in prison. The court proceedings concluded with Wheatcraft's admission of guilt, and he is currently serving his sentence.
The case drew significant attention from the local community and law enforcement, with the Richland County Sheriff's Office crediting the public for providing helpful information that led to Wheatcraft's arrest. The tragic loss of Caleb Barber left a profound impact on his family and friends, who remember him fondly.
