Eric Mason, a 48-year-old African American man from Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, was found dead on December 30, 2024, inside a vacant building on 11th Street. Authorities discovered his body while conducting a welfare check at the location. The Beaver County coroner later confirmed that Mason had died from a gunshot wound to the head. His death was immediately classified as a homicide, prompting an investigation by both the Beaver Falls Police Department and the Beaver County Detectives
Bureau.
Law enforcement officials began searching for a suspect in connection with Mason’s murder. Their investigation led them to Daniel Lance Philo II, a 37-year-old man who was reportedly seen accessing the building on the night Mason was last seen. Witnesses provided statements indicating that Philo had discussed plans to lure Mason to the building and kill him. Surveillance footage and additional evidence further implicated Philo in the crime.
Authorities issued a warrant for Philo’s arrest, warning the public that he was considered armed and dangerous. After an extensive search, Philo was apprehended on January 9, 2025, in Connellsville, Fayette County. His arrest brought some closure to the case, though investigators continued to piece together the full circumstances surrounding Mason’s death.
Mason was well-known in the Beaver Falls community and was described as a kind and caring individual with deep roots in the area. He was a devoted father to his daughter and had a strong passion for football, particularly as a fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Beaver Falls Tigers. His unexpected death left a significant impact on his family, friends, and the broader community. Funeral services were held in his honor, allowing loved ones to gather and pay their respects.
