Selvin "Solo" Harris McEwan, a 30-year-old male of African American ethnicity, tragically lost his life on October 3, 2021, in York, Pennsylvania. McEwan was known for his fun-loving personality, great smile, and laid-back demeanor. He enjoyed working at Harley-Davidson in York and had a passion for video games, especially Call of Duty. He was also skilled with computers and deeply cared for his family and friends.
On the day of his death, York City Police were called to a residence on East Poplar Street for a report of a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival, they discovered McEwan with gunshot wounds to his chest and torso. He was taken to York Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. A woman at the scene reported that McEwan had physically assaulted her, leading to the police being called.
Christian Galarza-Rodriguez, a 39-year-old man, was later identified as the suspect in McEwan's murder. Rodriguez pleaded guilty to third-degree murder and prohibited possession of a firearm in connection with McEwan's death. He admitted to having a firearm without a license but claimed he did not intend to kill anyone. Rodriguez was sentenced to 15 years in state prison as part of a plea deal.
The investigation revealed that Rodriguez was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a prior felony drug conviction. On the day of the shooting, Rodriguez pulled a knife during an altercation with McEwan, who responded by pulling out two knives. The situation was temporarily calmed by a witness, but Rodriguez then produced a firearm and shot McEwan multiple times. Police recovered five spent shell casings at the scene.
Rodriguez was arrested seven months after the shooting by the U.S. Marshals’ Fugitive Task Force. He faced charges of first-degree murder, possession of a firearm prohibited, endangering another person, and criminal homicide. The case highlighted the tragic consequences of domestic disputes escalating into deadly violence.
McEwan is survived by his three siblings, Keara, Kindeira, and De’Lon McEwan, as well as his paternal grandparents, Edward and Lecie McEwan, and a host of other family members. His death has left a significant impact on his family and community, who remember him fondly for his kind-hearted nature and willingness to help others.
