Heartbroken Mom Mourns 16-Year-Old Son Allegedly Murdered by Fellow Teen
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A 16-year-old is wanted in connection with the shooting death of another 16-year-old in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania. Police say the suspect, identified as Eric Krassman Jr., shot and killed Darell Love on Wednesday night in an incident that has left the local community reeling.
Beaver Falls police responded to a 911 call made by Love’s mother, who reported that her son had been shot. The call came just before 10 p.m. from a home on the 300 block of 13th Street. According to the criminal complaint, Love’s mother said she was in her bedroom when she heard a loud bang, told WTAE.
Moments later, her son entered the room bleeding heavily from his head. When she asked him what happened, Love reportedly said, “Eric Krassman Jr. shot me.” “I didn’t think it was real. I woke up hoping that it wasn’t real and I woke up and saw that he died and I was just hysterical all morning,” said Jhzmier Haynes, a close friend of Love.
Krassman fled the scene, leaving behind a semiautomatic handgun in the living room before officers arrived. Love was rushed to Allegheny General Hospital but later died from his injuries. Haynes spoke about Love’s character, saying, “If you were down he’d bring you up and that’s just the type of person he was. He was really kind-hearted and everything.”
Krassman is facing charges of criminal homicide and possession of a firearm by a minor. Police are urging the public not to approach him, as they believe he is armed and dangerous. Anyone with information about Krassman’s whereabouts is urged to contact the City of Beaver Falls Police Department at 724-775-0880.
The Big Beaver Falls Area School District released a statement identifying Love as a 10th grader at Beaver Falls High School. “Darell Love was a beloved member of our Beaver Falls High School family whose big smile and vibrant presence left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him,” the district said.
“The loss is deeply felt by our students, staff, and families, and our hearts go out to his family and loved ones during this unimaginable time.” The district also announced that grief counselors would be available at the high school to support students and staff.
