Joan Lois Lord Cressman, a 46-year-old woman from Allentown, PA, tragically passed away on October 8, 2021. She was born and raised in Old Zionsville and lived in Allentown. Joan left behind two children, Kaitlyn Lord and Austin Cressman, one grandchild, two siblings, Linda Lord and Susan Benjamin, and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother Robert Lord and her parents Walter and Susan Lord.
Joan's death was determined to be a homicide.
According to the Lehigh County Coroner's Office, Joan died from a gunshot wound to the head. The incident occurred in her apartment on North Oswego Street in Allentown. Authorities identified her boyfriend, Richard Sweet, as the perpetrator. When police arrived, Sweet reportedly told a witness, "She is gone, I killed her!" before leading officers on a pursuit that ended in a standoff at his Coaldale home. Sweet ultimately shot himself and was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
The Allentown Police Department, along with the Lehigh County Homicide Task Force and the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office, conducted an investigation into Joan's death. The case drew significant attention due to the dramatic nature of the events and the tragic loss of Joan, who was remembered by her community as a kind-hearted and loving person.
Joan's family and friends continue to mourn her loss and remember her fondly. Her obituary described her as someone who had a passion for life and loved working with children. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
