Daniel Scott McNerny, a 20-year-old male from Latrobe, Pennsylvania, tragically died on January 20, 2016, at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh. He was born on June 19, 1995, in Reading, Pennsylvania, and was a 2013 graduate of Greater Latrobe Senior High School. McNerny was known for his love of music, playing the guitar, and spending time with family and friends.
McNerny's death occurred during an armed robbery attempt at a home on St. Clair Street in Latrobe.
He was shot by Zachary McGrath, who was masked and dressed in black, while trying to intervene in the robbery. McNerny was not part of the robbery plot but was caught in the crossfire as he attempted to stop the crime. The robbery was allegedly planned by McGrath, Colin Gearhart, and Austin Krinock, who intended to rob a drug dealer from Allegheny County.
Following the shooting, police arrested three suspects: Zachary McGrath, 20, charged with first-degree murder; Colin Gearhart, 17, and Austin Krinock, 17, both charged with second-degree murder. The investigation revealed that the suspects had planned the robbery and discussed it beforehand. They waited several minutes before calling for an ambulance, during which time they hid stolen cash, guns, and drugs.
In the aftermath, Austin Krinock was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 30 years to life in prison, plus an additional four to eight years for conspiracy. Colin Gearhart was convicted of third-degree murder and received a sentence of 10 to 20 years in prison. Zachary McGrath's trial for first-degree murder was scheduled to begin shortly after the other convictions.
The McNerny family has continued to struggle with the loss and the circumstances surrounding Daniel's death. They have expressed their sorrow and the impact it has had on their lives, emphasizing the need for justice and accountability for those responsible.
The tragic death of Daniel McNerny highlights the devastating consequences of violent crime and the importance of community and family support in the wake of such loss.
