In Scranton, Pennsylvania, on the night of March 12, 2023, a dispute that began at a vigil tragically escalated, leading to the death of 27-year-old David John Deshler. A graduate of Scranton High School and a personal care assistant at St. Joseph's Center, Deshler was known for his wonderful personality and a great sense of humor. He was a father to three children, Isabella, Josiah, and Theodore.
The series of events that led to Deshler's death began with an argument between Jonathan Lance Smith and Freddy Mealing at a vigil held earlier in the evening. Following this dispute, Smith contacted Travis Lanzo, David Gaskins, and Noah Ortiz. The men then returned to the area in two separate vehicles. In what was described by the prosecuting Deputy District Attorney as an act of 'target practice,' Lanzo shot Deshler in the back of the head as he was walking down Schultz Court, near Mulberry Street. It remains unclear why Deshler was targeted in a dispute that seemingly involved other individuals. Deshler was transported to Geisinger Community Medical Center where he died from the fatal gunshot wound on Monday, March 13, 2023. His life was extended through organ donation.
In the months following the shooting, law enforcement agencies, including the Scranton Police Department and the U.S. Marshal's Fugitive Task Force, collaborated on the investigation. Their efforts led to the apprehension of Travis Lanzo in New York State. Three other men were also charged in connection to the deadly shooting.
Travis Lanzo, 31, stood trial for the murder of David Deshler. Following a weeklong jury trial, on December 16, 2024, Lanzo was convicted of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, and carrying a firearm without a license. On February 24, 2025, he was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, with an additional 23 to 47 years. The sentencing sent a clear message from the Lackawanna County District Attorney's Office that gun and gang-related violence would not be tolerated in the community. The case was investigated by Scranton Police Detectives Michael Schultz and Edward McIntyre and prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Sara Varela and Assistant District Attorney Danielle Guari.
