In the quiet town of Pawlet, Vermont, a tragic story unfolded in the early morning hours of Sunday, September 15, 2024, ending the life of 41-year-old Erica Crossman, a White female. Erica, who had recently married Brian Crossman Sr. in June of that year, was found shot to death in her home on Route 133 alongside her husband and her 13-year-old son, Colin Taft. The small community of about 1,400 people near the New York state line was left shaken and grieving by the violent loss of the family.
Brian Crossman Sr. was a hardworking community member and a recently elected member of the Pawlet Selectboard.
The investigation into the triple homicide quickly focused on a family member. Brian Crossman Jr., the 23-year-old son of Brian Crossman Sr. and stepson of Erica, was identified as the primary suspect. He was visiting his father's home for the weekend at the time of the killings. Evidence gathered by the Vermont State Police, including digital information, statements, and interviews, pointed to his involvement. In the days leading up to the tragedy, Erica had expressed her fear of being alone with her stepson to a family friend, a concern heightened by the fact that her husband was on call for work that weekend.
Brian Crossman Jr. was taken into custody in Granville, New York, and charged with three counts of aggravated murder. According to police, he had a history of mental health issues and a strained relationship with his father. Investigators found that multiple shotguns had been taken from a gun cabinet in the home and used to kill the three family members. An autopsy later confirmed that Erica Crossman died from a gunshot wound to the head. Her son, Colin, suffered multiple gunshot wounds, and her husband died from gunshot wounds to the head and torso.
The suspect initially contacted police himself, claiming to have discovered the bodies after returning from a walk. However, his blood-covered clothing and inconsistencies in his story led investigators to doubt his account. A search of his cell phone revealed multiple internet searches related to serial killers and unresolved murders. Following his arrest, he waived an extradition hearing and was set to be moved to Vermont to face the charges against him.
