Attorney for suspect in shooting case withdraws motion seeking bond

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) — The attorney for a man who pleaded guilty to his role in the shooting death of a 15-year-old withdrew a motion seeking bond for his client on Tuesday.

Defense attorney Michael Kivlighan withdrew the motion on behalf of his client, Saun Patterson, 22, during a hearing in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court.

Peterson pleaded guilty in November to two counts of felonious assault, obstructing official business, improper handling of a firearm in a motor vehicle and a five-year firearm specification in connection with the April 15, 2023, shooting death of Amya Monserrat, 15, who was killed in the parking lot of a 3503 Southern Blvd. restaurant following a birthday party.

Kivlighan could not be reached for comment as to why he withdrew the motion, which was first filed June 25. Assistant Prosecutor Steve Maszczak said Kivlighan did not give a reason during the hearing.

Peterson has been held on $250,000 bond since he was arraigned May 18, 2023, in common pleas court after he was indicted by a grand jury. He has been in the county jail since then.

Police said Peterson drove the car used in the shooting.

Danyo Sellers, now 17, formerly known as Legend Pless, had his case bound over from juvenile court and faces charges in common pleas court for Monserrat’s death. His case is still pending. He is charged with murder, felonious assault and involuntary manslaughter.

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