David John Ernest Carpenter-Kohler, a 14-year-old male of Caucasian ethnicity from Barberton, OH, tragically lost his life on December 31, 2013. David, along with his 18-year-old sister Ashley Carpenter and their father John Kohler, were victims of a home invasion that occurred on New Year's Eve. The incident took place at their father's home on Seventh Street Northeast in Barberton.
The suspects in this case, brothers Michael Deon Hendon, 22, and Eric Donta Hendon, 30, both of Akron,
were arrested on charges of aggravated murder. The Hendon brothers allegedly targeted the home to rob John Kohler of drugs and money. During the invasion, David and Ashley were found together in a back bedroom, having suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the head. David also had defensive wounds on his arms. Their father, John Kohler, succumbed to his injuries three days later, and their mother, Leiha Carpenter, was left devastated by the loss of her children and partner.
The Hendon brothers were each held on a $10 million bond and faced additional charges, including a potential death penalty specification. The case was reviewed by a Summit County grand jury, and the suspects entered not guilty pleas to the charges.
The community mourned the loss of David and Ashley, who were both active members of their school bands and well-loved by friends and family. A candlelight vigil was held in their honor, attended by hundreds of people who wanted to show support for the grieving family.
This tragic incident left a lasting impact on the Barberton community, and the legal proceedings continued as the suspects faced the consequences of their actions.
