Austin Smiley, a 19-year-old male from New London, Ohio, tragically passed away on March 20, 2019, in Mansfield, OH. Smiley was a 2017 graduate of Hillsdale High School and was known for his passion for wrestling. He was employed by Mid Ohio Pipeline and enjoyed spending time outdoors with his friends and brother.
Smiley's death was the result of a fatal shooting incident. He was pronounced dead at the scene after suffering a gunshot wound to the forehead.
The incident occurred in the 1600 block of Frontier Trail in Mifflin Township. According to the investigation, Smiley and the shooter, Jordan Skoog, were friends and co-workers who had been drinking and allegedly messing around with a handgun.
Jordan Skoog, a 29-year-old male from Bellville, OH, was initially charged with murder, involuntary manslaughter, reckless homicide, and using weapons while intoxicated. However, the murder charge was later dismissed by a grand jury, and Skoog was re-indicted on two counts of involuntary manslaughter, one count of reckless homicide, and a misdemeanor charge of using weapons while intoxicated. Skoog admitted to shooting Smiley but claimed he did not remember what happened due to intoxication.
The case went to trial, and Skoog faced the charges in court. The trial included testimonies and evidence suggesting that all three individuals involved were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. The judge ruled in favor of suppressing some of Skoog's statements made to law enforcement at the scene. Ultimately, Skoog was convicted of involuntary manslaughter and reckless homicide.
The death of Austin Smiley was a tragic and heartbreaking event for his family, friends, and the community. Smiley was remembered fondly by those who knew him, and his passing left a significant void in the lives of those who loved him.
