Parker Palermo, a 20-year-old male of mixed ethnicity, tragically passed away on May 12, 2019, in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He was a lifelong resident of Scranton and had a passion for music, aspiring to be a songwriter and rapper. Parker was also a loyal Steelers fan and loved playing football. His untimely death occurred outside an after-hours club called Club Vibe, located in the former Castle Restaurant on North Main Avenue.
The Lackawanna County Coroner ruled Parker's death a homicide. According to reports, Parker was shot in the abdomen early Sunday morning, and he succumbed to his injuries later that day at Geisinger Community Medical Center. Two other individuals were also wounded in the shooting. Investigators believe that more than one person may have been firing a gun during the incident. A man who owned a security company, but was not working that night, was identified as one of the shooters.
Scranton police, along with the county district attorney’s office, launched an investigation to determine whether the killing was criminal or committed in self-defense. The city council and neighbors called for the closure of Club Vibe in the aftermath of the shooting. The investigation continued as authorities sought to bring those responsible for Parker's death to justice.
Parker is remembered fondly by his family and friends, especially his younger twin brothers, Quinten and Cameron, and his girlfriend, Amber Williams. His memory lives on through his soon-to-be-born daughter, Catalina Parker Palermo. Parker's funeral Mass was held at Mary, Mother of God Parish at Holy Rosary Church in Scranton, where family and friends gathered to pay their respects.
The tragic loss of Parker Palermo has left a lasting impact on his loved ones and the Scranton community. The investigation into his death remains a priority for local authorities as they work to ensure justice for Parker and his family.
