17-Year-Old Charged After DNA Evidence Ties Him to Attack on Elderly Woman

A 98-year-old woman, who was approaching her 100th birthday, was tragically killed in a crime that shook Wadsworth, Ohio, in spring 2018

On the morning of April 9, the Wadsworth Police Department received a call from the family of 98-year-old Margaret Douglas, who lived alone and had not been heard from for several days. Concerned for her wellbeing, officers went to her home to conduct a welfare check. When they were unable to locate her, they initiated a preliminary search of the area.

Douglas’ nephew, Howard Leasure, and his wife Cindy joined the search later that evening, meeting with police at her residence to help find any signs of her whereabouts. It was during this search that Leasure made a tragic discovery: while checking a closet, he realized that his aunt had passed away.

“I pretty much lost it. It’s something I’ll never forget,” Leasure said in an interview with An Unexpected Killer, airing Fridays on Oxygen.

Initial indications at the scene suggested that Douglas may have been the victim of a violent crime, as evidence pointed to an assault. Authorities noted injuries consistent with trauma to her neck and other areas, and it appeared she had been left undiscovered for several days.

While Douglas’ wallet was missing, leading investigators to consider a possible burglary, the only item recovered near the home was a discarded plastic glove.

Douglas, who had lived alone after the death of her husband, was well-known in her community for her independence and spirited nature. Neighbors often checked in on her, making the circumstances of her death all the more shocking.

Investigators first spoke with a man named David, who had helped Douglas with chores and frequently visited her home. When police located him near the property during the investigation, he claimed he was concerned as a former neighbor. However, his knowledge of certain details of the case raised questions. Further suspicion arose when it was reported that David had expressed concern that his fingerprints might be found at the scene.

David agreed to DNA testing, which showed no match with the evidence collected, and he was able to verify his whereabouts and account for all concerns raised by investigators. “He genuinely cared about Margaret and wanted answers about what happened,” said Sergeant Dawn Schismenos of the Wadsworth Police Department.

The autopsy later confirmed that Douglas had not been sexually assaulted, despite earlier concerns, prompting investigators to expand the case. Police examined smaller local crimes, including a break-in at a construction site trailer, where a phone left behind led them to a young man named Zachary.

During questioning, Zachary revealed that a friend, Gavon Ramsay, was involved in the trailer incident and a series of other minor offenses. Zachary claimed that Ramsay had orchestrated most of the activities.

Gavon Ramsay, who was underage at the time, was brought in for questioning with his mother present. Initially, he admitted to minor offenses, including car break-ins and theft. After asking for privacy with his mother outside the room, Ramsay revealed involvement in a more serious crime—a carjacking of a man he had met online. When questioned about Margaret Douglas’ death, he denied any involvement, though investigators remained suspicious.

A review of Ramsay’s phone provided a shocking breakthrough. Authorities discovered photos and videos of Douglas taken inside her own home without her knowledge. It became clear that Ramsay had entered her house secretly and recorded her.

Concerned that he might flee, police immediately took Ramsay into custody. During further questioning, he admitted to entering Douglas’ home for an adrenaline rush, recording her while she slept, and, upon her waking, assaulting her. Investigators also found additional evidence of abuse to her body.

“He degraded her … videotaping and taking pictures. He had been in there with her for a while,” said Detective Matt Markley of the Wadsworth Police Department.

Ramsay then moved Douglas into a closet before fleeing to his nearby home, suggesting he may have specifically targeted her. Police subsequently arrested Ramsay for murder. A search of his home revealed additional evidence, including a glove matching the one found at the scene and Douglas’ missing wallet. Investigators also discovered a journal in which Ramsay wrote about serial killers and violent fantasies.

“After reading those, it was clear that Gavon could commit violent acts again if given the opportunity,” said Sergeant Dawn Schismenos.

Ramsay faced multiple charges and stood trial as an adult. During the proceedings, his mother testified that he had been receiving counseling and that a prescribed medication may have affected his behavior. However, this defense was insufficient. At just 17 years old, Ramsay was found guilty of all charges and received life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Douglas’ family was left to grieve the loss of a remarkable woman. “She was a wonderful woman. A great woman,” said her nephew, Howard Leasure.

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