Darian Simpkins, a 29-year-old man from Homestead, Pittsburgh, PA, tragically lost his life on July 23, 2021. He was shot near Quarry Field in Pittsburgh's South Side Slopes neighborhood while children were playing football. The Allegheny County Medical Examiner's office confirmed that Simpkins died from a gunshot wound to the torso.
The incident occurred around 6:45 p.m., and police were alerted by a ShotSpotter notification.
Officers found Simpkins in the passenger seat of a white Ford vehicle, which was pulled over by Pittsburgh Police Chief Scott Schubert. Despite efforts to save him, Simpkins was pronounced dead at the hospital. The driver of the vehicle, who provided a statement to the police, was not identified as a suspect.
Homicide detectives are investigating the case, but no suspects have been identified so far. The shooting follows a series of violent incidents in the South Side area, including another shooting earlier that day which left three people injured. Pittsburgh police have arrested a 15-year-old boy in connection with that earlier incident.
Simpkins, affectionately known as Buster, was a beloved father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He was known for his sense of humor and his close bond with his son, Darian Sean Simpkins Jr. His death has left a significant void in the lives of his family and friends, who remember him fondly.
The community continues to mourn the loss of Simpkins and calls for an end to the violence plaguing the area. Public safety officials have increased patrols and surveillance in the South Side, and there are ongoing discussions about setting up a police substation to address the rising crime rates.
Simpkins' legacy lives on through his family and the memories shared by those who knew him. His death serves as a stark reminder of the impact of gun violence on individuals and communities.
