PINE TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Authorities in Columbia County have confirmed that the death of a 17-year-old boy found inside a home Thursday morning is being investigated as a homicide. The victim, identified as Carter J. Conklin of Engle Road, died from a single gunshot wound to the head, according to the Columbia County Coroner’s Office. His death has left the rural community reeling as police search for answers.
Emergency responders were dispatched just before 7:30 a.m. after receiving a call about a deceased male at a residence in Pine Township. Pennsylvania State Police arrived at the scene alongside the coroner’s office, where they located Conklin inside the home. Officials quickly began examining the area for evidence while securing the scene to determine the events that led to the teen’s death.
On Friday, Columbia County Coroner Jeremy Reese announced the results of a forensic autopsy. The examination confirmed that Conklin’s fatal injury was caused by a gunshot wound and officially ruled his death a homicide. While officials have not revealed further details about the shooting, the classification has raised alarm across the small township, where violent crime is rare and residents are grappling with the reality of a young life lost.
Conklin was a student at the Millville Area School District, which released a statement offering condolences and support to grieving families. School leaders described the loss of a student as “devastating” and emphasized the importance of providing students with counseling and space to process their emotions. Grief counselors have been made available, and staff are working to support classmates and friends as they cope with the news.
At this stage, authorities have not disclosed any information about possible suspects, motives, or whether anyone else was present at the time of the shooting. The Pennsylvania State Police continue to investigate alongside the coroner’s office, reviewing evidence and conducting interviews. Officials have urged anyone with knowledge of the incident to contact investigators, stressing that community cooperation could be key to uncovering the circumstances of Conklin’s death.
As the investigation continues, the community of Pine Township remains in mourning. The death of Carter Conklin has left classmates, neighbors, and friends devastated, with many struggling to comprehend the sudden loss. For now, residents are left waiting for answers while remembering a teenager whose life was cut tragically short, hoping justice will be served in the days ahead.