In a demonstration at the Schuylkill County Courthouse in Pottsville on Tuesday, the family and friends of two murder victims voiced their frustration and sought answers regarding the unresolved case.
The incident unfolded on October 10th, 2023, when the bodies of 18-year-old Hunter Mock and 16-year-old Angel Caraballo were discovered in a wooded area along Ferndale Road, a mile from Route 209 in New Philadelphia. Following thorough autopsies, authorities classified both deaths as homicides.
Legal documents later showed 19-year-old Lamour Branch, a resident of Port Carbon, in connection to the murders. However, Branch was apprehended for an unrelated burglary shortly after the killings and incarcerated in Schuylkill County Prison on charges stemming from that incident.
On November 20th, 2023, Branch was released from prison after posting a reduced bail related to the burglary charges. Branch or anyone else has not faced any charges in connection to the double homicide, leaving the victims' families and friends frustrated.
As of today, December 6th, 2023, no charges have been brought forth in relation to the murders, intensifying the frustration of those seeking justice.
Over 20 demonstrators gathered on Tuesday, with signs and wearing shirts bearing the message, "We want Justice and Answers for Angelito Caraballo and Hunter." The protesters, united in their plea for closure, asking anyone with information to step forward, potentially aiding in the arrest of the responsible party.
The day of the protest coincided with the scheduled preliminary hearing for Branch, yet the proceedings were unexpectedly postponed.
The day of the protest coincided with the scheduled preliminary hearing for Branch, yet the proceedings were unexpectedly postponed.
The Schuylkill County District Attorney's Office cited the victim's illness as the reason for the delay. The preliminary hearing for the burglary charges is now rescheduled for February 13th, 2024, before Magisterial District Judge Andrew J. Serina.
The delay adds another layer of uncertainty for those eagerly awaiting developments in the murder case.
A second protest is scheduled for this weekend to allow people that couldn't attend during the week. No times have been announces yet for the second protest.
Photos by Todd Bernhard / Story By J. Reed / Skook News
