On the evening of October 21, 2021, the body of 27-year-old Joseph Michael Fedornak of Pottsville was found in woods off Ash Road in Cass Township. An argument and a gunshot had been reported nearby. Fedornak showed multiple contusions and lacerations to his face, chest, and lower body, and the cause of death was ruled gunshot wounds; the manner of death was homicide.

Investigators say the events began with a dispute between Fedornak and Michael Angelo. According to testimony from James Fitzpatrick’s ex-wife, who was also Fedornak’s girlfriend, Angelo claimed Fedornak had hit him with a rock; Angelo reportedly armed himself with a gun while Fitzpatrick grabbed a stick and the two went outside, and the witness reported hearing multiple gunshots. Angelo reportedly admitted firing two shots at Fedornak, and Fitzpatrick reportedly admitted assaulting him with a stick and kicking him.

Both men were arrested and faced charges including first-degree murder, third-degree murder, and aggravated assault. Fitzpatrick later pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit third-degree murder; Angelo was awaiting trial on remaining charges. Does anyone have information about Joseph’s life or about what happened that night?