Joanne Moser, a 10-year-old girl from Evansburg, Pennsylvania, tragically lost her life on March 31, 1985. She was one of three victims in a horrific shooting incident involving her father, Leon Jerome Moser. The incident occurred after Palm Sunday services at the St. James Episcopal Church in Lower Providence Township. Joanne, along with her mother Linda Moser and sister Donna Moser , were shot by Leon Moser in the church parking lot.
Leon Moser, who had a history of violence towards
his ex-wife Linda, had recently lost his job and was being treated for depression. On the day of the incident, he had arranged to meet his ex-wife and daughters after the church service. An argument ensued when Linda refused his request to take the girls to visit his parents in Wisconsin. In a fit of rage, Leon took out a rifle and shot Joanne in the back of the head while she was in the back seat of his car. He then shot Linda and Donna, resulting in their deaths.
Leon Moser was arrested at the scene and later charged with three counts of first-degree murder. He pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to death. His execution took place on August 16, 1995, at the State Correctional Institution at Rockview, Pennsylvania.
The tragic loss of Joanne Moser and her family members left a lasting impact on the community and highlighted the devastating consequences of domestic violence and mental health issues. The case also underscored the importance of addressing and preventing such incidents to protect vulnerable individuals and families.
