Joshua Daywalt, a 35-year-old male from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was found dead in the Schuylkill River on February 7, 2025. Authorities later determined that he had been shot in the back of the head, and his death was ruled a homicide. Daywalt had struggled with mental health issues for years, and his family had previously spoken out about his battle with schizophrenia.
His mother, Jennifer Daywalt, described how her son had developed multiple personalities and had refused mental health treatment, leaving him vulnerable and disoriented.
After nearly three months of investigation, Philadelphia police arrested 61-year-old Roger Gosson in connection with Daywalt’s murder. Gosson, who was reportedly homeless at the time, had been living inside the Green Lane Bridge in the Manayunk section of Philadelphia. Authorities executed a search warrant at the bridge and discovered an elaborate setup, including multiple levels, an electrical hookup, and a fully furnished tent. Investigators also found a firearm at the scene.
Daywalt was last seen alive near the Green Lane Bridge, where Gosson had been residing. His mother expressed relief at the arrest, stating that she had been seeking justice for her son. She also called for changes in Pennsylvania’s mental health laws to allow families more involvement in the care of adults struggling with severe mental illness. While Gosson has been charged with murder and related offenses, no other arrests have been made in connection with Daywalt’s death.
