In the Homewood neighborhood of Pittsburgh, a community was left to grapple with the sudden and violent death of Damion G. Nance, a 46-year-old man known affectionately as 'Day Day'. On the late Friday night of March 25, 2023, the life of this beloved local figure was cut short by gunfire. The incident, which also claimed the life of 47-year-old Janell 'Nelly' Ross, unfolded just outside of Denise and Earl's bar, a familiar establishment at the corner of Frankstown and Brushton avenues.
A ShotSpotter alert registered the sound of 15 rounds being fired, a stark indicator of the violence that shattered the midnight peace.
Damion Nance was a man deeply woven into the fabric of his community. His sister, Shayla Hopkins, described him as a 'humble and non-problematic person' who was cherished by the children of Homewood. He had dedicated his time to coaching youth football teams, pouring his love and guidance into the younger generation. His death was a profound loss for those who knew him, not only as a coach and a friend but also as a man who had endured his own personal tragedy with the loss of his son two years prior. Mayor Ed Gainey, who knew Nance personally, spoke of him as a 'great guy' who 'worked with our children... loved the community, poured love into them.'
In the wake of the shooting, an outpouring of grief and support enveloped the community. On March 27, hundreds gathered for a vigil to honor the memories of both Nance and Ross, releasing balloons into the sky as a symbol of their shared sorrow and remembrance. Despite the public outcry and the ongoing investigation by the Pittsburgh police, no suspects have been arrested in connection with the double homicide. The authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward, as a community continues to mourn and await justice for a man who gave so much of himself to others.
