Jayren Joseph Lamiere Graham, a 19-year-old male of African American ethnicity from Miami Township, passed away on September 13, 2018. He was employed as a dishwasher at the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton in Miamisburg, OH. Jayren was known for his creativity, having developed a popular Star Wars video game on YouTube at the age of 10. He was also a proud Army Reservist.
On the night of his death, Jayren was involved in what witnesses described as a drug deal gone wrong.
Larry Malcolm Sain, an 18-year-old former West Carrollton High School student, was convicted of murder and tampering with evidence in connection with Jayren's death. According to court testimony, Sain and two friends had driven to the hotel parking lot to purchase marijuana from Jayren. After the transaction, a struggle ensued over a handgun in Sain's vehicle, during which the gun discharged, fatally wounding Jayren.
Sain was sentenced to 18 years to life in prison for the murder. He initially sought to withdraw his guilty plea but ultimately maintained it, claiming self-defense during the struggle. Despite extensive court proceedings, the gun used in the shooting was never recovered.
Jayren's family, including his mother Melissa and step-father Darrell King, father Vernon Graham, and siblings Kayla, Madison, Jaden, Quadarius, and Shakyla, have been deeply affected by his loss. They have consistently attended court proceedings and addressed the court during sentencing.
The tragic incident has left a lasting impact on the community, highlighting the devastating consequences of drug-related violence.
