Suspect Wanted In Richland County Child Murder Case Arrested By U.S. Marshals
MANSFIELD — A man wanted in connection with the death of a 3-year-old child in Richland County has been arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service.
According to a June 25 news release from the U.S. Marshals Service, Alex Morris, 31, was arrested early Wednesday afternoon by members of the U.S. Marshals-led Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team, known as SOFAST. Morris was wanted by the Mansfield Police Department and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office on charges of murder, involuntary manslaughter and felonious assault.
The case began in May 2024, when Mansfield Police opened an investigation into the death of a 3-year-old child. Initial reports indicated the child died as a result of a choking incident, but investigators later determined the child’s death was the result of a murder, according to the release.
Morris, who is identified in the release as the child’s father, was investigated and named as the suspect. A warrant for his arrest was issued through Richland County Common Pleas Court on May 26, 2026.
Members of the U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force began searching for Morris earlier this month. Investigators developed information that Morris was likely living and hiding in Morrow County. That information was passed along to SOFAST, which located Morris at a home in the 2800 block of Township Road 164 in Cardington.
Authorities said Morris was taken into custody without incident.
U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott credited the Mansfield Police Department for its work on the case.
“Dedicated work by the Mansfield Police Department ensured that this case would be brought to justice and the person responsible will be held accountable,” Elliott said.
U.S. Marshal Michael Black, of the Southern District of Ohio, also praised the joint effort, saying teamwork across the state helps ensure fugitives have “nowhere to hide.”
Anyone with information about a wanted fugitive can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED, or 1-866-492-6833. Tipsters may remain anonymous, and reward money is available.
