In the quiet early morning hours of a Thursday in Stowe Township, a tragedy unfolded that would cut short the life of a young mother. On January 21, 2021, 28-year-old Kelly Cody, a white female, was found in an alleyway in the 700 block of Penn Alley, having been shot in the head. First responders arrived just before 8:00 a.m. and transported her to a local hospital in critical condition. Despite medical efforts, she was pronounced dead later that day, just after 4:00 p.m.
Remembered by her mother as a beautiful soul, both inside and out, Kelly was a loving mother and friend. Her mother recalled telling her every day on her way to school to 'Be bold, be beautiful, be brave,' a mantra that seemed to define Kelly's kind and courageous spirit. She was known for her willingness to help everyone and her ability to see the good in people. Her giggle, smile, and silliness are deeply missed by her son and mother. Friends and family gathered to hold a vigil, remembering a woman who was a loving presence in their lives.
The investigation into Kelly's death quickly led to a suspect. Allegheny County Police determined that 29-year-old Lauren Brown was responsible for the fatal shooting. In addition to the death of Kelly Cody, Brown was also accused of assaulting a 31-year-old man. Brown was subsequently arrested and housed at the Allegheny County Jail. The charges filed against Brown included criminal homicide, aggravated assault, tampering with evidence, and firearm violations, bringing a swift, though not painless, development in a case that had so suddenly devastated a family and community.
