MANSFIELD — A second arrest has been made in connection with the August 2016 murder of Thomas Belcher, Richland County Prosecutor Gary Bishop said on Thursday afternoon.
“Today, Richland County Prosecutor Gary Bishop announces that charges have been filed in connection to the Belcher homicide,” the press release states. “As a result of the Mansfield Police Department’s long-term and ongoing investigation, a complaint charging offenses in connection with this homicide were filed in Richland County Juvenile Court.
“At the appropriate time, a press conference will be held when further details can be discussed.”
Neither a name nor mug shot of the detained was given with the press release.
“The prosecutor’s office is handling charges filed today with the courts,” said Mansfield Police Chief, Ken Coontz. “Prosecutor Bishop will give updates when they become available.”
Coontz said various illicit drugs were collected at the crime scene. He declined to comment on what types of drugs were collected, however, he said there were small amounts.
Nearly a year later, MPD recovered the weapon it believes was used to shoot Belcher.
The firearm was an antique weapon and was considered a Belcher family heirloom: a Lee Enfield rifle with a scope.
“The gun was taken during the homicide,” Mansfield Police Lt. Robert J. Skropits said at the time. “That’s why we believe the person with the gun was involved with the homicide.”
However, Thomas Belcher, the son of the deceased, said his father was shot by a 9 mm.
“The (antique gun) was stolen off the wall,” he said.
Bakari Young was found with the gun on April 14 and is charged with receiving stolen property, Skropits said. He would not say if Young is a suspect in Belcher’s murder but called the weapon a significant piece of evidence.
