Erik Ray Thomas Jr., a 20-year-old Black male, was found shot to death inside a vehicle on Monticello Street in the Homewood neighborhood of Pittsburgh on August 2, 2021. The death was sudden and unexpected and left his family and community mourning.

On August 11, 2021, the Pittsburgh Police Fugitive Task Force arrested 21-year-old Roemon Howard of Export, PA, in connection with the shooting. Howard was charged with criminal homicide and multiple gun-related offenses.

The community organized a GoFundMe to help cover funeral expenses and support Erik’s family. The case underscores ongoing concerns about gun violence in Pittsburgh and the impact on victims’ families.

If anyone has information about Erik, the shooting, or events on Monticello Street that day, please share it with investigators.