Jacob Shedlock, an 18-year-old male from Laurel Run, Wilkes-Barre, PA, tragically passed away on November 23, 2018, from a gunshot wound to the chest. The incident was ruled a homicide by Luzerne County Coroner William Lisman after an autopsy performed by forensic pathologist Dr. Gary Ross. Shedlock was found at 768 N. Pennsylvania Ave. just before 11 p.m.
and was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.
The investigation revealed that Shedlock's death was caused by an accidental discharge of a firearm by his friend, Kahzmeek A. Prater, who was 18 at the time. Prater admitted to playing with a loaded semi-automatic handgun while trying to fix a marijuana blunt, which resulted in the gun discharging and striking Shedlock in the chest. Initially, Prater attempted to cover up the incident by claiming an unknown robber was responsible, but he later confessed to the accidental shooting.
Prater was charged with involuntary manslaughter and possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance. He pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to two years, nine months to eight years in state prison. The case deeply affected Shedlock's family and friends, who described him as a loving and kind-hearted individual who was always there to help others.
The tragic loss of Jacob Shedlock has left a lasting impact on his loved ones and the community, who continue to remember him fondly and seek justice for his untimely death.
