In the quiet woods of Cass Township, a grim discovery was made on the evening of October 21, 2021. The body of 27-year-old Joseph Michael Fedornak of Pottsville, a White male, was found in a wooded area off Ash Road. An argument and a gunshot had been reported in the vicinity, leading state and local police to the scene. Fedornak appeared to have been in a physical altercation and had suffered gunshot wounds.
The investigation into his death would soon uncover a harrowing tale of conflict and violence.
The subsequent investigation led to the arrests of two Pottsville men, James Fitzpatrick, then 49, and Michael Angelo, then 50. The events leading to Fedornak's death allegedly began with a dispute between Fedornak and Angelo. According to testimony from Fitzpatrick's ex-wife, who was also Fedornak's girlfriend, Angelo claimed Fedornak had hit him with a rock. In response, Angelo reportedly armed himself with a gun, while Fitzpatrick grabbed a stick. The two men then went outside. The witness reported hearing multiple gunshots.
Upon their return, Fitzpatrick allegedly made statements such as, 'I got him. He's done.' Investigators found Fedornak's body with multiple contusions and lacerations to his face, chest, and lower body. The cause of death was determined to be gunshot wounds, and the manner of death was ruled a homicide. During the investigation, Angelo reportedly admitted to firing two shots at Fedornak, while Fitzpatrick admitted to assaulting him with a stick and kicking him.
Both James Fitzpatrick and Michael Angelo faced a host of serious charges, including first-degree murder, third-degree murder, and aggravated assault. In a development in the case, James Fitzpatrick pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit third-degree murder. Michael Angelo was awaiting trial on charges including first-degree murder. The legal process continues to unfold as the community seeks justice for the untimely death of Joseph Fedornak.
