In the winter of 2009, a beloved and familiar figure in Pittsburgh's Hill District, Darryl Crosby, became the victim of a violent crime that left his community in shock. A 58-year-old Black male, Crosby was a well-known presence in his neighborhood, often seen navigating the streets on his motorized scooter with music playing from its speakers. Despite having cerebral palsy, he was described by those who knew him as independent and determined, a man who didn't let his physical challenges hinder
his spirit. He lived alone in a third-floor apartment at 100 Hyman Place, a secure building primarily for elderly and disabled residents.
Concern arose on Tuesday, February 3, 2009, when Crosby missed a doctor's appointment. A caseworker, unable to reach him, went to his apartment to check on him shortly before 4 p.m. and made a horrifying discovery. Inside his home, Crosby was found deceased, having suffered multiple stab wounds. The news of his death stunned neighbors and friends, who gathered outside the apartment complex as police began their investigation. Many described him as a quiet and humble man who never bothered anyone, leaving them at a loss as to who would want to harm him.
Investigators at the time did not immediately disclose whether there were signs of forced entry into the apartment, which required a key card for residents to enter and a buzzer system for visitors. A caregiver had reportedly stopped by earlier in the day but left when she could not get into the residence. In the immediate aftermath of the discovery, Pittsburgh police had made no arrests and had not publicly identified any suspects in connection with the slaying. As of late 2009, the case remained unsolved, with no charges filed in the death of Darryl Crosby. The investigation into who was responsible for ending the life of the well-known Hill District resident was ongoing.
