TOWANDA, PA — Community Grieves After 14-Year-Old Destiny Skye Gross Is Fatally Shot: Authorities Investigating Homicide
The tight‑knit Bradford County community is reeling after the tragic and violent death of 14‑year‑old Destiny Skye Gross, a Towanda Middle School student who was fatally shot on Tuesday, June 10, in Windham Township. The Bradford County Coroner has officially ruled her death a homicide following confirmation of a shotgun wound to her chest. The unexpected tragedy has sent shockwaves through her family, school, and neighbors.
💔 The Incident: When a Day Became Nightmare
According to Pennsylvania State Police and Bradford County Chief Deputy Coroner Timothy R. Cahill Jr., Destiny was found with a single shotgun wound to her chest at approximately 2:20 p.m. on June 10, at the intersection of State Route 187 and Merrill Hill Road in Windham Township . The nature of the wound prompted an immediate homicide determination, though officials have also indicated that investigators are exploring whether the shooting was accidental .
State police confirmed the victim was a student in the Towanda Area School District, prompting the offering of grief counseling services at Towanda Area Elementary School the following day for her classmates and school staff .
🧠 Ruling of Homicide, Investigation Remains Ongoing
- Manner of death: Officially ruled as homicide due to shotgun blast to the chest; Deputy Coroner Cahill confirmed as much Monday morning .
- Investigation: Law enforcement is actively working to determine whether the fatal discharge was intentional or accidental. No criminal charges have been filed so far . Authorities said the incident poses no ongoing threat to the larger public .
🕯️ Shock and Grief Ripples Through the Community
- School response: Towanda Area School District made grief counselors available to students and staff, acknowledging the profound emotional impact .
- Community reaction: Neighbors expressed disbelief and sorrow over the tragic loss of such a young life, and parents across Bradford County are worried about the safety and future of area youth.
🛠️ What Happens Next: Authorities Seek Answers and Witnesses
- Gathering evidence: Investigators are examining forensic evidence and interviewing potential witnesses to reconstruct how the gun discharged.
- Witness appeal: Law enforcement encourages anyone with information—even seemingly small details—to come forward to aid in their efforts. Contact can be made through Pennsylvania State Police or Bradord County officials.
📌 Why This Matters
Destiny’s death is a stark reminder of the serious consequences that firearms accidents—or worse—can have on families and communities. Whether accidental or intentional, every gun-related tragedy demands careful review and reflection on safety, responsibility, and supervision.
🤝 How You Can Support and Help
- Share information: If you were in the area or know anything about the incident, please contact State Police at 570‑265‑2186.
- Support the family: Reach out with condolences, send meals, or assist in the memorial process.
- Find comfort together: Prayer gatherings or community vigils may be organized to provide a place for collective healing.
🕊️ A Young Life Lost
The Bradford County community grieves for Destiny Skye Gross, a promising young girl whose life was taken in a heartbreaking flash. Her family, classmates, and friends now face life without her bright presence. As police continue their investigation, the community stands together—holding onto one another, seeking answers, and supporting those most affected by this tragedy.
Destiny’s life mattered—and the search for truth and justice continues.
