Dennis Pitch, a 52-year-old Caucasian male from Narvon, Pennsylvania, tragically lost his life on December 2, 2016. He was found shot multiple times inside his home on Timothy Drive in Salisbury Township, Lancaster County. Dennis was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, known for his kind and loving nature. His death sent shockwaves through the community, as he was well-liked and respected by many.
The investigation into Dennis Pitch's death revealed that he was targeted during a
robbery. Four men, including Kristopher Smith, Christopher Lyles, Michael Baker, and Brandon Bills, were implicated in the crime. The suspects learned that Dennis was planning to withdraw a large sum of money from his retirement account in cash, which led them to target his home. On the night of December 2, 2016, the group broke into Dennis's home, and during the robbery, he was shot multiple times.
Kristopher Smith, who knew Dennis and was the connecting piece between the other suspects, conspired with Christopher Lyles and Michael Baker, who traveled from Delaware County to commit the crime. Brandon Bills stayed in the car while the others entered the home. After the shooting, the suspects returned to the car, and Smith told Bills, "It didn't go as planned". Dennis's body was discovered by his family two days later, on December 4, 2016.
The Pennsylvania State Police launched a thorough investigation, and after numerous interviews and evidence collection, they charged the four men with robbery and criminal homicide. Kristopher Smith was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Christopher Lyles and Michael Baker were convicted of second-degree murder and also received life sentences without parole. Brandon Bills pleaded guilty to his involvement and received a 5-10 year prison sentence.
The case highlighted the dangers of home invasions and the devastating impact they can have on families and communities. Dennis Pitch's family and friends continue to mourn his loss and remember him fondly for the joy and love he brought into their lives.