A fatal shooting on January 12, 2025, left four family members dead in North Sewickley Township, Pennsylvania, approximately 40 miles north of Pittsburgh. The 16-year-old victim was able to dial 911 before succumbing to his injuries, according to Beaver County District Attorney Nate Bible.
The responding officers discovered the deceased parents, Clifford Hunt Sr., 51, and Michelle Hunt, 48, at their residence on Shaffer Road. The couple’s sons, Clifford Jr., 19, and Cody, 16, were transported via helicopter to a Pittsburgh hospital in critical condition where they later died, as reported by Bible.
Bible revealed that initial investigations point towards a murder-suicide case. North Sewickley Township Police Chief Jeff Becze confirmed the family’s interest in hunting, and acknowledged the presence of multiple firearms in the household from his previous interactions with the family.
Additional officers were deployed to the rural property following reports of screaming sounds, which were later identified as coming from the family’s livestock. The North Sewickley Township Police Department confirmed the situation was “contained” and there was no immediate threat to the community.
Autumn Ashurst, who had delivered ducks to Michelle Hunt a few hours before the tragedy, remarked, “It’s not only one tragedy but it’s four all at the same time, and I can’t imagine how many lives are ruined over this.” She added that Michelle was thrilled about receiving the ducks and had prepared a special place for them.
The Hunt family was well-known and respected in their community for their dedication to animal care. In the wake of the incident, local farmers have stepped in to look after the family’s pets and livestock.
Cody Hunt, a junior at Riverside High School, was an accomplished student, a member of the National Honor Society, and an aspiring pilot. He also played saxophone in the school’s marching band and volunteered at the Air Heritage Aviation Museum with his mother. The teenager had plans to apply to the United States Air Force Academy.
The Air Heritage Aviation Museum paid tribute to Michelle Hunt, describing her as a devoted volunteer who consistently demonstrated a positive attitude and strong work ethic. The statement also highlighted the pride shared between Michelle and Cody over the latter’s achievements.
Riverside School District Superintendent David Anney announced the availability of grief counselors and therapy dogs for staff and students. The district also established a memorial scholarship in Cody’s honor for students pursuing careers in aviation.
Community support continues to grow, with a GoFundMe page raising nearly $40,000 for funeral expenses. The Air Heritage Museum has also announced plans for a memorial to acknowledge Michelle and Cody’s contributions to the organization.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to establish a motive. The Beaver County Medical Examiner’s office expects to release final autopsy reports within 30 days. In the meantime, investigators are interviewing family, friends, and associates and analyzing evidence from the scene.
