Joseph F. Mullner Jr., a 64-year-old Caucasian male from Cherryville, PA, tragically passed away on October 4, 2017. He was a retired electrician who had worked for Essroc Cement Co. for 42 years. Mullner was known for his love of cars and motorcycles, especially Corvettes and Harley Davidsons, and enjoyed fishing and collecting rocks. He was also an Eagle Scout and continued to participate in Boy Scouts with his son.
On the evening of his death, Mullner and his wife, Melinda, were shot
at their home in Lehigh Township by his cousin, John Michael Hann. The incident occurred following a personal dispute, possibly about money. Hann, who was 61 years old at the time, was arrested after an overnight manhunt and standoff with police. He was charged with homicide in Mullner's death and attempted homicide for allegedly shooting Melinda Mullner, who survived the attack but was left in critical condition.
Hann later pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and attempted murder. The court found that the killing was premeditated, and Hann was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The tragic event shocked the community, as such violent incidents were rare in the rural area of Lehigh Township.
Mullner's death left a significant impact on his family and friends, who remembered him as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. His memorial service was held at Queenship of Mary Church in Northampton, PA, where family and friends gathered to honor his memory.
The case highlighted the devastating consequences of family disputes and the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions. Mullner's family continues to remember him fondly and honor his memory through various tributes and contributions to causes he cared about.
