Nicholas "Nick" Morales, a 40-year-old male of Hispanic ethnicity from Harrisburg, PA, tragically passed away on August 2, 2019, from a gunshot wound to his stomach. He was a contractor with Keith Lawson Construction and was known for his love of animals, especially dogs, and his passion for working with his hands. Morales was also very family-oriented and protective of his loved ones.
The investigation into his death revealed that 16-year-old Dauntel Evans was the shooter.
Police responded to reports of shots fired on South 13th Street in Harrisburg and found Morales with the fatal wound. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Morales succumbed to his injuries. During the investigation, a witness who was walking behind Evans identified him as the shooter.
In May 2020, Evans was arrested and initially charged with homicide. Shortly after his arrest, Evans and three others—Sean Evans, Jakiy Evans, Fontaine McClure, and Kevin Marshall—used Facebook Live to threaten and assault the witness who identified Dauntel Evans as the shooter. The group was later arrested and charged with burglary, witness intimidation, retaliation against a witness, simple assault, and criminal conspiracy.
In December 2021, Dauntel Evans agreed to an open plea of third-degree murder and was sentenced to six to twelve years in prison. During the trial, Morales' fiancé and brother spoke about the impact of his death on their lives, while supporters of Evans emphasized his potential as an athlete, scholar, and leader.
The case was described as tragic by Chief Deputy District Attorney Sarah Phillips, who noted the sympathy for Evans' promise but emphasized that his actions led to the guilty plea. The sentencing also included charges and sentences for the individuals involved in the witness intimidation and assault.
This case highlights the devastating consequences of violence and the importance of justice for the victims and their families.
