19-Year-Old Accused of Killing Indicted, Arraigned in Ohio

Serroyan J. Couto faces aggravated murder charge with gun specification in March 31 death of Damien Williams.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:03am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a single spent bullet casing on a dark surface, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the investigation into a violent crime.A recent wave of gun violence in Warren, Ohio has authorities searching for answers and community leaders calling for action.Warren Today

Serroyan J. Couto, 19, was arraigned in Trumbull County Common Pleas Court on an aggravated murder charge for the March 31 killing of Damien Williams. Couto was indicted by a grand jury and is accused of killing Williams with prior calculation and design, meaning a premeditated killing. Williams was found dead at a School Street home with a gunshot wound to the head.

Why it matters

This is the third homicide in the city of Warren, Ohio so far this year, following two other high-profile shooting incidents in February. The case highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence and public safety in the community.

The details

Couto, who was listed as homeless but born in New Mexico, was arraigned before Judge Andrew Logan and had his bond set at $5 million. His next hearing is scheduled for April 22. According to a police report, officers responded to the School Street home and found Williams dead on the floor with a gunshot wound to the head. Couto was taken into custody at the scene.

  • On March 31, Damien Williams was found dead at a School Street home.
  • On April 6, Serroyan J. Couto was indicted by a Trumbull County grand jury.
  • On April 9, Couto was arraigned before Judge Andrew Logan.

The players

Serroyan J. Couto

A 19-year-old man accused of killing Damien Williams with prior calculation and design, meaning a premeditated killing.

Damien Williams

The 31-year-old victim who was found dead at a School Street home with a gunshot wound to the head.

Judge Andrew Logan

The Trumbull County Common Pleas Court judge who arraigned Couto and set his bond at $5 million.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Couto's next hearing is scheduled for April 22, when the judge will determine if he should remain in jail on the $5 million bond.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges of gun violence and public safety in the city of Warren, Ohio, which has seen three homicides already in 2026 following a year with seven total. The community will be closely watching the legal proceedings against the 19-year-old suspect.