Wilkes-Barre Man Pleads Guilty in 2024 Fatal Shooting, Degree of Guilt to be Determined

WILKES-BARRE, PA – Branden Delcastillo, 29, of Wilkes-Barre, has pleaded guilty to a general count of criminal homicide in connection with the death of Lonnie Davis, 35, on September 9, 2024. The shooting occurred on East Northampton Street in Wilkes-Barre. Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas Judge Joseph F. Sklarosky Jr. Will determine the degree of Delcastillo’s guilt next week, potentially leading to a sentence ranging from manslaughter to life in prison without parole.

Details of the Plea and Potential Sentencing

Delcastillo initially refused a plea offer from the prosecution that would have resulted in a prison sentence of 17 years and six months to 33 years. By entering a guilty plea to the general homicide charge, Delcastillo is now leaving his fate in the hands of Judge Sklarosky.

According to information presented during the hearing, a conviction of first-degree murder carries a sentence of life in prison without parole. A third-degree murder conviction could result in a maximum sentence of 40 years, although a manslaughter conviction would carry a considerably lesser penalty.

Circumstances Leading to the Shooting

Investigators believe a longstanding feud between Delcastillo and Davis contributed to the shooting . Court records indicate Delcastillo was carrying boxes of shoes he intended to sell when he encountered Davis near East Northampton Street and Livingston Lane. Davis had previously dated Delcastillo’s mother.

An argument ensued, and surveillance footage reportedly captured four gunshots being fired and a Nissan Rogue fleeing the scene. Davis was found with multiple gunshot wounds and later died at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center. The Luzerne County Coroner Jill Matthews ruled Davis’ death a homicide .

Self-Defense Claim

During a previous court proceeding, Delcastillo claimed the shooting was an act of self-defense, alleging that Davis brandished two knives during the altercation .

Legal Representation

Delcastillo is represented by attorneys Andrew D. Bigda and John B. Pike. Assistant District Attorneys Daniel M. Marsh and Anthony Cardone are prosecuting the case.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.