Police Arrest Teen In Connection With Franklin Park Native's Murder
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Indianapolis Police Department officials say a teen has been arrested in connection with the murder of Nathan Trapuzzano, a Pittsburgh native and expectant father who was shot and killed last Tuesday while out for his morning walk.
Police say they have taken 16-year-old Simeon Adams into custody for the April 1 attack and murder. He will be charged as an adult.
KDKA's Ralph Iannotti Reports:
Jennifer Trapuzzano, Nathan's pregnant wife posted a message on her Facebook page just hours after the arrest.
In part, Trapuzzano's widow wrote: "Oh how my wounded heart aches to hear this. I don't know this man's circumstances, but it hurts to hear such a young man could turn to such violence. Please pray for his conversion."
"It's just senseless and shocking, and it's just not right," said Rachael Pruitt, Nathan's sister.
According to our CBS affiliate WISH-TV, Adams was reportedly shot the same day Trapuzzano was killed, and was already being held at a detention center for juveniles.
Police had surveillance video to work with where two suspects are seen.
Investigators say they have identified a second suspect in the case, but are not yet releasing his identity.
The 24-year-old Trapuzzano, who grew up in the Franklin Park area, was a devoted Catholic who was involved in pro-life ministry work along with his regular job as a computer programmer. He is a graduate of North Allegheny High School.
"Nate was my younger brother by about two years, but I always looked up to him. He always influenced me," said Matt Trapuzzano, Nathan's brother.
KDKA's Brenda Waters Reports:
Trapuzzano lived in Indianapolis with his wife.
"Jennifer wants to make sure that Nate's faith comes across, because she feels it's helped and changed some people, and that's what she wants his legacy to be," added Pruitt.
The couple was about to celebrate two big events next month, their first wedding anniversary and the birth of their first child, a little girl, who they have already named Cecelia.
"It'll be sad that he won't be here with her, but it's great because we at least get something," Pruitt said.
At his funeral Mass in Indianapolis on a Saturday, the priest who gave the homily concluded by saying, "I have no doubt Nathan forgave his murderers, because that's the kind of man I knew him to be."
"I think something good will come of this, somehow," said Matt.
"I think he did his time here; he touched enough lives and brought enough happiness to people and maybe that was his piece here," added Shayne Trapuzzano, Nathan's sister. "I mean, maybe that's what he needed to do."
KDKA's Brenda Waters Reports:
Police believe the motive could have been robbery.
Meanwhile, Adams is charged with murder, attempted robbery and carrying a firearm without a license.
RELATED LINKS:
Franklin Park Native Shot, Killed During Mugging In Indianapolis (4/3/14)
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