Hazleton Murder Trial Delayed: Key Hearing Postponed to December

UPDATE: The murder trial of Jenndry Samuel Rodriguez Contreras, a 24-year-old from York accused of a fatal shooting during a drug deal, has been swiftly delayed until December 15, 2023. This urgent development comes as defense attorney James Scanlon requested the postponement due to his involvement in another trial.

The trial, originally slated to begin next Monday, centers around the tragic events of October 7, 2022, when Rodriguez Contreras allegedly opened fire at the rear of 199 S. Wyoming St. in Hazleton, resulting in the death of Felix Dini, 22, from Freeland, and causing serious injuries to Rochell Angel “Chi-Chi” Reyes-Cruz, 23, of Hazleton. This delay amplifies the tension surrounding the case, given its violent nature and the community’s desire for justice.

Authorities confirm that Rodriguez Contreras is currently held at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility without bail. He is wanted for murder in the Dominican Republic and is the third individual charged in connection with this incident. The earlier trials of Keliana Lineth Moronta Jimenez and her boyfriend Wellington Javier Marte Ramirez ended in acquittals.

The trial postponement follows a separate and dramatic mistrial in which Frangel Garcia Andujar, 23, faced charges for a shooting that injured five individuals at an underage drinking party in Hazleton. The trial was declared a mistrial after a jury member was seen photographing the jury, raising serious concerns about courtroom integrity.

As the community reflects on these developments, the delays in Rodriguez Contreras’ trial continue to raise questions about safety and justice in Hazleton. Residents and families of the victims are left awaiting a resolution to this harrowing case.

What happens next remains critical. With the new trial date set for December, all eyes will be on the courtroom as the community seeks answers and accountability for the violent events that have shattered lives.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as we continue to follow the proceedings and their impact on the Hazleton community.