Brother of suspect in Hopewell teen's murder speaks out

Elwood Mayfield says his brother Rashad, one of four suspects, is 'one of the most chill, calm people' he knows.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 1:34am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single piece of physical evidence related to the Hopewell teen murder case, such as a piece of clothing, a weapon, or an item found at the crime scene, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, investigative aesthetic.A stark, gritty close-up of a key piece of physical evidence from the investigation into the tragic murder of Hopewell teen Jayden McComber.Hopewell Today

The brother of a man accused of killing 18-year-old Jayden McComber is speaking out, highlighting the heartbreak experienced by families on both sides of the tragedy. Elwood Mayfield says his brother Rashad Antonio Mayfield, one of four suspects charged with second-degree murder in McComber's death, is 'one of the most chill, calm people' he's ever met and doesn't believe he could have committed the crime.

Why it matters

This case has shaken the Hopewell community and raised questions about the circumstances surrounding McComber's death and the involvement of the four suspects. Elwood Mayfield's comments provide a personal perspective on the impact the tragedy has had on his own family.

The details

Rashad Mayfield, 20-year-old Devonti Gregory Pettaway, 18-year-old Kennady Jade Lambert and 19-year-old Jaden Lamont Phillips all face second-degree murder charges in the death of the Hopewell High School senior. Elwood Mayfield, Rashad's brother, says Rashad 'stays in the house and plays his video games' and is 'much more calm' than Elwood himself.

  • Jayden McComber was reported missing before his body was found Tuesday afternoon in a marshy area in Caroline County.
  • Officials are also investigating a woman's body found in Caroline County four days before McComber's body was discovered. Police believe the cases are connected, but no charges have been filed in the woman's death.

The players

Elwood Mayfield

The brother of Rashad Antonio Mayfield, one of the four suspects charged with second-degree murder in the death of Jayden McComber.

Rashad Antonio Mayfield

A 23-year-old man charged with second-degree murder in the death of Jayden McComber.

Jayden McComber

An 18-year-old Hopewell High School senior whose body was found in a marshy area in Caroline County.

Devonti Gregory Pettaway

A 20-year-old man charged with second-degree murder in the death of Jayden McComber.

Kennady Jade Lambert

An 18-year-old woman charged with second-degree murder in the death of Jayden McComber.

Jaden Lamont Phillips

A 19-year-old man charged with second-degree murder in the death of Jayden McComber.

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What they’re saying

“I pray that the honest truth comes out, and that not only can their family have peace, but I hope that mine can as well.”

— Elwood Mayfield, Brother of suspect Rashad Mayfield

“It's hard for me to talk about, but he doesn't do anything. My brother stays in the house and plays his video games while he talks on his phone. My brother is one of the most chill, calm people that I've ever met in my life. He's much more calm than I am. I can't see my brother doing anything to get in trouble.”

— Elwood Mayfield, Brother of suspect Rashad Mayfield

“He's my life. I have my brother's name tattooed on me. There's only two people's names I have tattooed on me, and that's my dad and my brother. I love them. I love my brother so much.”

— Elwood Mayfield, Brother of suspect Rashad Mayfield

What’s next

Pettaway, Rashad Mayfield and Phillips are due back in court on July 17. Lambert is being held at the Richmond City Justice Center awaiting her first court appearance. Deputies warn the suspects could face additional charges as the investigation continues.

The takeaway

This case has deeply impacted the Hopewell community and the families involved, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding Jayden McComber's death and the alleged involvement of the four suspects. Elwood Mayfield's defense of his brother Rashad highlights the complex emotions and perspectives that often emerge in high-profile criminal cases.