On December 20, 2024, 57-year-old Jane Payton was tragically killed in her home on Lucy Street in Masury, Ohio. The incident began around 9:52 a.m. when Payton contacted authorities, reporting that her ex-boyfriend, 57-year-old Andrew Reedy, who had been legally evicted earlier that morning, was attempting to force his way back into her residence.
Upon arrival, officers found the residence locked and received no response at the door. After unsuccessful attempts to contact Payton, they reached Reedy by phone. Reedy claimed he had returned to retrieve a personal item and had since left, stating that Payton had also departed. Doubting his account, officers forced entry into the home and discovered Payton deceased with a gunshot wound to the chest. While securing the scene, they heard a firearm discharge from the second floor, prompting them to retreat and call for backup.
A standoff ensued, lasting nearly 24 hours, involving multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Mahoning Valley Crisis Response Team and the FBI. Throughout the standoff, negotiators attempted to persuade Reedy to surrender peacefully. During negotiations, it was revealed that Reedy had sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the face. He eventually surrendered to authorities at approximately 7:20 a.m. on December 21, 2024, and was transported to a hospital for medical evaluation.
Reedy has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with Payton's death. Court records indicate a history of legal issues, including probation violations following an OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) charge in November 2023, with multiple warrants issued for missed court appearances.
Jane Payton is remembered by her family as a hardworking and independent individual who cherished her two children and grandchild. Her sister, Susan Honel, described her as "very loving" and noted that she held multiple jobs to support herself. An online memorial has been established in her honor, where friends and family have lit candles and shared memories.
The community continues to mourn her loss, and authorities urge anyone with additional information regarding the case to come forward as the investigation remains ongoing.
