Brian Crossman Jr., a 22-year-old man from Granville, New York, was arrested and charged with three counts of aggravated murder after allegedly killing his father, stepmother, and her son in their Vermont home. The victims were identified as Brian Crossman, 46, Erica Crossman, 41, and Colin Taft, 13. The shooting took place in the rural town of Pawlet near the New York state border. Brian Crossman Jr. was taken into custody by New York State Police and appeared in Warren County Court where he was ordered to be held without bail until his extradition back to Vermont.
The victims were found with gunshot wounds in their home, with Brian Crossman shot in the head and torso, Erica Crossman shot in the head, and Colin Taft shot multiple times. Authorities recovered a gun and shell casings from the scene. Brian Crossman Jr. reportedly called 911 to report the crime, claiming that he found his family deceased upon returning from a walk. However, investigators found inconsistencies in his story. The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation, although family members mentioned a troubled relationship between Brian Crossman Jr. and his father.
Family members of the victims revealed that Brian Crossman Jr. had a learning disability, history of mental health issues, and had shown aggression in the past. Investigators also found searches related to serial killers and cold case murders on his phone. Brian Crossman Sr. and Erica Crossman had recently gotten married in June on their generational farm in Pawlet. Brian Crossman was an elected member of the Pawlet Select Board, and neighbors described him as someone who was working on cleaning up and running the family farm as a new start.
The community was shocked by the tragic incident, as Brian Crossman Sr. was well-liked and respected in the area. Some neighbors expressed their disbelief at the news, stating that the violent crime was unexpected. Brian Crossman Jr.’s troubled history and mental health issues have contributed to the ongoing investigation into the motive behind the murders. The gruesome crime has impacted the small town of Pawlet and has left many wondering how such a tragedy could happen in their close-knit community.
The authorities are continuing to gather evidence and information to determine the circumstances surrounding the murders. Brian Crossman Jr. remains in custody awaiting extradition to Vermont, where he will face the charges brought against him. The investigation into the case is ongoing, and authorities are looking into all aspects of the crime as they work to bring justice for the victims and their families. The tragic event has left the community in mourning and disbelief, as they grapple with the aftermath of the violent deaths of three individuals in their town.
