A seemingly idyllic family in the Pittsburgh suburb of North Sewickley, Pennsylvania, was shattered by a horrific act of violence that left two parents and their two teenage sons dead. The incident, which occurred on a Sunday evening, has been classified by authorities as a triple murder-suicide, with preliminary investigations indicating the eldest son, 18-year-old Clifford Hunt Jr., as the perpetrator. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community, leaving residents struggling to comprehend the devastating loss.
First responders arrived at the Hunt family home around 8:30 p.m. after receiving a 911 call originating from within the residence. Upon entering, they discovered the bodies of Clifford Hunt Sr. (51), Michelle Hunt (48), and their two sons, Clifford Jr. and his 16-year-old brother, Cody, all suffering from gunshot wounds. While the parents were pronounced dead at the scene, both boys were transported to a Pittsburgh hospital with head injuries. Tragically, both succumbed to their wounds on Monday, bringing the death toll to four.
While the investigation remains ongoing, authorities believe Clifford Jr. shot and killed his parents and younger brother before turning the gun on himself. Multiple firearms were recovered from the scene, and investigators are working to determine the specific weapon used in the killings and establish a precise timeline of events. This meticulous process involves analyzing forensic evidence, interviewing potential witnesses, and reconstructing the events leading up to the tragedy to understand the motivations behind this horrific act.
The small town of North Sewickley is reeling from the loss of the Hunt family. Residents describe the community as close-knit, where everyone knows each other and looks out for one another. The sudden and violent nature of the deaths has left many in disbelief and struggling to process the tragedy. Local businesses, like the one where Jennifer Lanham works, were temporarily closed as a precaution in the immediate aftermath of the incident. Lanham echoed the sentiments of many in the community, expressing shock and disbelief at the scale of the violence in their small town.
The victims are being remembered fondly by friends and acquaintances. Michelle Hunt is described as an animal lover and a dedicated volunteer at the Air Heritage Aviation Museum in Beaver Falls, where she served as secretary. Cody, a junior at Riverside High School, is remembered for his kind heart, his willingness to help others, and his shared passion for aviation with his mother. Both mother and son volunteered at the museum, working on the C-123K Fairchild Provider “Thunder Pig,” the last known flying aircraft of its kind. Cody, who recently obtained his pilot’s license, dreamed of joining the Air Force. The museum plans to create a memorial in their honor to commemorate their contributions and selfless service.
The Riverside School District released a statement expressing their condolences and highlighting Cody’s kindness and helpful nature. They described him as a beloved member of the school community, active in the marching band as a saxophonist, and always willing to lend a hand to others. His loss is deeply felt by teachers, classmates, and the entire school community. A GoFundMe page has been established to assist with funeral expenses for the four family members, reflecting the community’s desire to support the grieving extended family and honor the memory of the Hunts. The outpouring of grief and support underscores the profound impact this tragedy has had on the small town of North Sewickley, where the lives of four individuals were tragically cut short.
