On a quiet Sunday in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, the life of 74-year-old Wanda A. Deshong came to a tragic end. On September 24, 2023, she was found deceased in her home on Gravel Pike, the victim of a single gunshot wound to the head. Her death, ruled a homicide, was not an isolated incident; her 53-year-old son, Adam Deshong, was also discovered in the kitchen, having sustained multiple gunshot wounds.
The events leading to the discovery began to unfold when Wanda's younger son, 49-year-old Aaron Deshong, made a call to an FBI Threat Assessment Center, indicating he may have harmed his family members. When Pennsylvania State Police arrived at the residence, they found Aaron Deshong still on the phone with the FBI and detained him. Inside the home, troopers discovered the bodies of his mother and brother. A. 38 caliber Smith & Wesson revolver, registered to Aaron Deshong, was later found in his basement bedroom closet with four spent shell casings and two live rounds.
Aaron Deshong, who lived with his mother, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, third-degree murder, and possessing an instrument of a crime. Prosecutors stated that the shooting was the culmination of 'years of pent-up aggression' following a falling out with his brother after their father's death. Aaron Deshong had reportedly become distant from his extended family. He told investigators he had been 'on edge' since his father's passing.
During his trial, which began in December 2024, prosecutors highlighted a 'casual conversation' Aaron had with the FBI on the day of the killings. When asked if he had hurt his family or if they were alive, he reportedly responded, 'that's a good question.' His defense attorney argued that this did not amount to a confession and that there were no eyewitnesses. The prosecution presented evidence of gunshot residue on Aaron's hands and a key in his possession that unlocked the closet where the murder weapon was found. Wanda Deshong was a retired registered nurse who enjoyed painting and collecting antiques.
