Abram "Abe" Sorek, a 23-year-old male of unspecified ethnicity, tragically died on April 12, 2014, in Erie, Pennsylvania. He was a senior at St. Vincent College, studying business marketing, and was set to graduate the following Saturday. Sorek was also a former member of the college's lacrosse team and worked in the sports information office.
The circumstances of Sorek's death were determined to be accidental.
He was visiting friends at a house on Kahkwa Boulevard in Erie when he was shot in the head with a 9 mm handgun. The shooting occurred early in the morning, and it was reported that there was no confrontation or argument preceding the incident.
Aladin Jojic, a 23-year-old male and childhood friend of Sorek, was charged in connection with his death. Jojic was arraigned on charges of involuntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, and reckless endangerment. According to the criminal complaint, Jojic had been playing with the handgun, which he had been told was loaded, before accidentally shooting Sorek. Jojic was released on a $100,000 unsecured bond, and his preliminary hearing was scheduled for May 16, 2014.
The incident was described as a "horrible and unfortunate accident" by the deputy coroner, and it deeply affected both the Sorek and Jojic families. Sorek's death was mourned by his friends, family, and the St. Vincent College community, who remembered him as a passionate and dedicated individual who lived life to the fullest.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Jojic faced legal proceedings, and the case brought attention to the dangers of handling firearms, even in seemingly safe environments. The tragedy underscored the importance of gun safety and the devastating consequences that can result from negligence.
Sorek's legacy lives on through the Abram Sorek Scholarship Fund, which was established in his memory to support students at St. Vincent College. His family and friends continue to honor his memory by promoting awareness about gun safety and supporting educational initiatives in his name.
