A young man’s life was cut tragically short in Henderson, Kentucky, during a late-night gathering that erupted in violence. Eighteen-year-old Jaiwuan Wadlington of Evansville was fatally shot on July 27, 2019. The incident, which also left two other teenagers wounded, took place outside the Thomason Banquet Hall. Wadlington was just a few days shy of his nineteenth birthday.
Remembered for his contagious and beautiful smile, Jai’wuan attended Harrison High School where he was a
member of the football team. He had a passion for basketball and rapping and cherished spending quality time with his siblings. Friends and family described him as someone who was always joking around, trying to make everyone laugh.
The investigation into the shooting led to the arrest of another eighteen-year-old, Japaris Baker of Henderson. Initially taken into custody on an assault charge, Baker’s charge was upgraded to murder after further investigation and interviews with several witnesses. According to police reports, the shooting stemmed from an argument that broke out between individuals from Henderson and Evansville. Witnesses stated that following the dispute, Baker began shooting, striking Wadlington and the two other teens. The other two victims sustained leg injuries and were expected to survive.
