Severen Tywain Clayborn, a 33-year-old African American male from Columbus, OH, tragically lost his life on December 4, 2017. He was killed by a stray bullet while he was likely sleeping inside his home on South Wayne Avenue in the Hilltop neighborhood. The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m., when two gunmen used high-powered rifles, including an AK-47, to shoot at a car carrying four teenagers who had skipped school.
Unfortunately, a bullet struck 17-year-old Quentin Smith, and another stray bullet hit Clayborn, who was inside his home at the time.
The investigation into Clayborn's death revealed that the shooters fired dozens of rounds, leaving behind as many as 30 bullet casings on the street. The police have not released any details about possible suspects, but they are actively investigating the case. The families of the victims have expressed their grief and frustration, hoping that justice will be served and that the violence will stop.
In December 2019, Darnell Vinson, a Columbus gang member, was sentenced to 87 years to life in prison for his involvement in the shooting. Vinson, along with Devon Bias, was indicted on murder charges for firing at the SUV, which resulted in the death of 16-year-old victim and the stray bullet that killed Clayborn. Bias's case is still pending in Franklin County Common Pleas Court.
The tragic loss of Severen Clayborn has left a lasting impact on his family and the community. His mother, Sharon Clayborn, has spoken out about the need for change and the importance of valuing life. She hopes that her son's death will make a difference and inspire others to work towards ending the violence in their community.
