On the evening of August 15, 2015, a game of dice among a group of men in Pittsburgh's Fairywood neighborhood turned deadly. Kason Barnes, a 19-year-old African-American male from Chartiers City, was among those gathered outside a home in the 400 block of West Prospect Avenue around 10 p.m. The night was shattered when a gold minivan and a silver car pulled up, and at least two individuals emerged from the vehicles, opening fire on the group.
The sudden eruption of gunfire left chaos and
tragedy in its wake. Barnes was struck by bullets in his head and shoulder and was pronounced dead at the scene. Three other men were also wounded in the attack. A 22-year-old from Fairywood was shot in the hand, a 20-year-old from the Hill District was hit in the legs and side, and another 20-year-old from Sheraden suffered a gunshot wound to his leg. The three surviving victims were transported to local hospitals and were all listed in stable condition.
In the aftermath, friends and family gathered for a memorial to remember Kason Barnes. Neighbors expressed their shock and fear, with one resident noting that the area, which had been peaceful for a long time, had recently seen an increase in violence, making them hesitant to let their children play outside. Homicide detectives launched an investigation into the shooting, but despite their efforts and appeals for public assistance, no arrests have been made in connection with the murder. The case remains unsolved as authorities continue to seek information that could lead to the individuals responsible for the death of Kason Barnes.
