On April 12, 2024, 83-year-old Anthony P. "Tony" DiCenzo Sr., a respected businessman from Brownsville, Pennsylvania, was tragically found deceased. His body was discovered inside his white Cadillac along Riffle Hollow Road in German Township, covered with a tarp in the backseat. An autopsy revealed that DiCenzo had suffered two gunshot wounds to the head.
Investigations led to the arrest of 65-year-old Norman F. Pennington, a longtime acquaintance of DiCenzo.
The two men had known each other for over three decades and were reportedly involved in a business venture concerning the purchase of a bar. DiCenzo had allegedly given Pennington $30,000 for this investment. According to DiCenzo's wife, he had recently expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the deal, indicating he wanted his money returned if no action was taken.
Pennington confessed to the shooting, claiming it was in self-defense. He stated that he disposed of the firearm by throwing it into Dunlap Creek. Evidence collected from the crime scene, including a Disney "Frozen" blanket found in the vehicle, was linked back to Pennington. Further investigation revealed that Pennington had a significant criminal history, including prior felony convictions, which prohibited him from legally possessing a firearm.
Following his arrest, Pennington was charged with criminal homicide and is currently held in the Fayette County Jail without bail. A preliminary hearing was scheduled for April 29, 2024. The tragic loss of Anthony DiCenzo has deeply affected the Brownsville community, where he was known as a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
