Teen to be tried as an adult in murder and armed robbery

A 16-year-old will be tried as an adult in the murder and armed robbery of Francisco Javier Guzman.

Davion Smith gave his final hugs and goodbyes to his family from the county’s Juvenile Center.

Magistrate Joel Gabrielse granted the prosecution’s motion to move Smith’s case to adult court

He’s now headed to St. Joseph County Jail where he’ll be held without bond.

According to a probable cause affidavit, Smith was identified by witnesses as one of the suspects that shot and killed 22-year-old Francisco Javier Guzman.

The other suspect, 21-year-old Arremone Tobar was arrested by police and faces one count of murder as well.

Tobar told investigators he and Smith were paid to kill the victim and split that payment although Smith didn’t actually shoot Guzman, according to records.

At the end of his hearing, Magistrate Gabrielse gave a word of encouragement to the 16-year-old.

He told him he’s facing serious consequences but it’s not necessarily the end of the road for him.

His trial date has not yet been set.