Joseph Roberson was 17 when he was shot in the head after midnight on June 18, 2022, at a home on Bowens Road in Spring Brook Township, Lackawanna County. The Lackawanna County Coroner ruled his death a homicide. Roberson, from Thornhurst, had been at an underage drinking party at the residence.

Two 18-year-olds from Scranton, Evan Wasko and Liam O’Malley, were arrested in connection with the shooting. Wasko was charged with Criminal Homicide, Terroristic Threats, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, and firearms violations. O’Malley faced charges of Terroristic Threats, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, and firearms violations. Both were remanded to Lackawanna County Prison and had preliminary hearings scheduled for July 6, 2022. The Pennsylvania State Police and the District Attorney’s office investigated and asked anyone with information to come forward.

Joseph was described as an only child and the community responded with shock and sadness. If anyone knew Joseph or saw activity at the Bowens Road house that night, please share what was seen or heard.