On May 7, 2024, at approximately 1:50 a.m., Erie City Police responded to reports of gunfire in the 700 block of West 4th Street. Upon arrival, officers discovered 35-year-old Deonte Dupree Tate, Sr., deceased with gunshot wounds to his head and torso. A 31-year-old woman was also found at the scene, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to her legs and lower abdomen; she was transported to UPMC Hamot Hospital in critical but stable condition.
The suspect, identified as 34-year-old Melvin D. Burnett Jr., was apprehended within ten minutes of the incident after a brief foot chase. Burnett, originally from Detroit, Michigan, faced charges including homicide, first-degree murder, attempted homicide, aggravated assault, and several firearm and drug-related offenses. He was denied bail and detained at the Erie County Prison.
Investigations revealed that the shooting occurred following a confrontation in the street. Surveillance footage obtained by the police showed Burnett drawing a firearm and firing multiple rounds at the victims, corroborating witness statements. The firearm used was determined to be a stolen Glock 9mm semi-automatic pistol. Additionally, Burnett was found in possession of a substantial amount of suspected heroin at the time of his arrest.
This incident marked the first homicide in Erie for the year 2024. In response, community members, including the Benedictine Sisters, organized a "Take Back the Site" vigil on May 28, 2024, at the location of the shooting. The vigil aimed to honor the memory of Deonte Tate, Sr., and to advocate for non-violence within the community.
Deonte Tate, Sr., born on September 12, 1988, in Erie, was remembered as a devoted father and fiancé. He was a graduate of Strong Vincent High School and had a passion for sports, cooking, and spending time with family and friends. He is survived by his fiancée, children, parents, siblings, and grandparents.
