Nalene Renee Harrell, a 38-year-old woman from Pittsburgh, PA, tragically passed away on March 27, 2021. She was the beloved daughter of Nathaniel Harrell and Andrewnay Carty, and cherished mother of Namell, Shaun, Troy, and Skylene Scrubb. Nalene was also the sister of Natalie Jackson and Anthony Thomas, and she is survived by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
The circumstances surrounding Nalene's death were investigated as a murder.
Donte Moss, a 44-year-old man from Pittsburgh's North Side, was arrested and later convicted of first-degree murder and possession of a firearm in connection with her death. Moss, who had been dating Nalene for several months, was found standing over her body when police arrived at the scene on Linnview Avenue near Triana Street just after midnight. According to Moss, Nalene had pulled her firearm from her hip area and it discharged while she was outside the vehicle. However, the Allegheny County Medical Examiner's Office determined that the bullet was fired from no more than 3 1/2 feet away, suggesting it was not fired at close range.
Moss was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder conviction, with an additional 10 to 20 years for the firearm possession charge. Despite maintaining his innocence, Moss was convicted based on circumstantial evidence presented at trial.
Nalene's death has had a profound impact on her family and community, leading to efforts to raise awareness about domestic violence and support her loved ones. A GoFundMe fundraiser was organized to cover funeral expenses and provide financial assistance to her mother and children during their time of grief.
Nalene Renee Harrell's life and tragic death have left a lasting legacy, and her family continues to honor her memory through various tributes and support initiatives.
