On August 17, 2023, 69-year-old John Michael Roskowski was fatally shot in the lobby of Cable Services Company in Old Lycoming Township, Williamsport, Pennsylvania. The alleged shooter, Kenneth Michaels, 65, the company's CEO and Roskowski's brother-in-law, was arrested and charged with criminal homicide and possession of an instrument of crime.
The incident reportedly stemmed from a dispute over Roskowski's presence at the company.
On August 16, Roskowski visited the premises to have his vehicle serviced, which displeased Michaels, leading him to instruct employees that Roskowski was no longer welcome. The following day, Roskowski returned and, after being informed of the prohibition, became agitated and proceeded to the administrative office, persistently ringing the locked front door buzzer. Michaels retrieved a loaded handgun from his desk before confronting Roskowski. After a brief exchange, Michaels allegedly shot Roskowski once in the abdomen. Roskowski was transported to UPMC Williamsport, where he was pronounced dead.
Following his arrest in Cape May, New Jersey, on September 1, 2023, Michaels was extradited to Pennsylvania and has been held without bail. In November 2023, he sought a "reasonable bail," citing his lack of a criminal record and strong community ties; however, bail was denied, and he remains detained as he awaits trial.
The case has experienced procedural developments, including the removal of Lycoming County District Attorney Tom Marino due to potential conflicts of interest, as ordered by Judge Ryan Tira in August 2024. This decision aimed to ensure impartiality in the proceedings.
As of December 2024, the trial date for Kenneth Michaels has not been set. He continues to be held without bail, facing charges for the alleged fatal shooting of his brother-in-law, John Roskowski.
