John 'Johnny' J. Rabbitz Jr., a 44-year-old man from Sugarloaf Township, Pennsylvania, tragically lost his life on the evening of January 21, 2025. He was pronounced dead at Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton. Rabbitz Jr. had spent the past 24 years in Sugarloaf after moving from Hazleton. He was a Staff Sergeant in the United States Army, serving in Unit Supply since joining in September 2009.
He was known for his love of motorcycle riding, ice hockey, and his unwavering support for the Philadelphia Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers. Above all, his greatest joy was spending time with his three daughters.
Authorities reported that Rabbitz Jr. called 911 around 5:20 p.m. on January 21, stating that he had been shot multiple times at his home on Merry L. Drive. He informed dispatchers that someone had knocked on his door, and upon answering, he was immediately shot, including twice in the chest. Before losing consciousness, Rabbitz Jr. identified his alleged assailant as Hunter Snyder, stating the attack was 'over a girl.' He was pronounced dead at the scene by the Luzerne County Coroner.
Investigators later uncovered text messages between Snyder and a woman Rabbitz Jr. had been dating. The woman had briefly dated Snyder in October 2024 before ending the relationship. Snyder reportedly continued to contact her, urging her to reconcile. Concerned about his behavior, Rabbitz Jr. and the woman installed a surveillance system at her home in Sunbury. Authorities found video evidence of Snyder visiting her residence multiple times unannounced and uninvited. Surveillance footage near Rabbitz Jr.'s home also captured Snyder's vehicle in the vicinity of the shooting.
Snyder, a former Pennsylvania State Trooper who had been assigned to Troop F until May 2023, was charged with homicide and remains in custody at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility. The case continues to unfold as investigators gather further evidence.
