Zion Madison Thomas, a 19-year-old African American male from Homestead, Pennsylvania, tragically passed away on May 7, 2020, in Pittsburgh, PA. Zion was born on January 22, 2001, to James Alfonso Thomas and Jacqueline Madison Thomas. He graduated from Steel Valley High School in 2019. Zion was known for his passion for carpentry and was remembered fondly by his family and friends.
On the morning of May 7, 2020, Zion was found shot dead in Pittsburgh's East Liberty neighborhood.
According to police reports, Zion and the suspect, Jamar Haden, were communicating via Facebook minutes before the incident. A transaction was taking place, and when Zion refused to hand over his backpack, Haden shot him in the chest. Zion was pronounced dead at the scene.
Following the incident, Jamar Haden, a 17-year-old from Larimer, was arrested and charged with criminal homicide, criminal attempt of robbery, and two counts of criminal conspiracy. The investigation revealed that Haden had planned the robbery and used social media to lure Zion into a trap.
The tragic death of Zion Thomas highlighted the increasing violence in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County in 2020. The community mourned the loss of a young life and called for measures to address the rising crime rates and gun violence.
Zion's family and friends continue to remember him and honor his memory through various tributes and memorial services. His passing serves as a reminder of the impact of violence on families and communities, and the need for collective efforts to prevent such tragedies in the future.
