In Maple Heights, Ohio, a family gathering turned tragic when a man allegedly shot and killed his pregnant sister and her husband, according to local law enforcement. The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Jason Iverson, is also accused of injuring a 13-year-old boy during the incident.
The victims, 30-year-old Mercedes Iverson and her husband, 31-year-old Trea Carter, were attending a picnic at a local park when the incident occurred. According to police reports, the suspect arrived at the park and engaged in a dispute with his sister, which escalated into a physical altercation.
Following the altercation, Mercedes, Carter, and the 13-year-old boy attempted to leave the scene in their car. It was at this point that Iverson allegedly drew a handgun and began firing at them. Mercedes was fatally wounded, while the boy sustained a minor injury to his arm. Carter attempted to escape on foot but was pursued and shot by Iverson, according to police reports.
The victims’ mother, Cynthia Ivey, provided additional context in an interview with local media. She stated that Mercedes and Carter had been at the park to drop off a stroller for her as she was attending a church picnic. She also revealed that Jason had been holding a grudge, the nature of which she did not specify.
Mercedes, a licensed cosmetologist, and Carter, a postal worker, were expecting a baby girl they planned to name Ava. The unborn child did not survive the incident. The 13-year-old boy was treated at a local hospital and later released.
Jason Iverson has been charged with murder and attempted murder. His arraignment is scheduled for Wednesday. It remains unclear whether he has retained legal representation or entered a plea. The Maple Heights Police Department has not yet responded to requests for comment on the case.