‘Gifted’ sophomore killed in shooting in Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH — Family members are mourning the loss of a 15-year-old sophomore, who was killed in Lincoln-Lemington on Tuesday night.

Pittsburgh police responded to a ShotSpotter alert on Montezuma Street shortly after 9, and discovered Donangelo Castaphney shot to death on Olivant Street.

“I’m really shocked, I’m astonished, I’m devastated, I’m hurt that he had to leave this earth at that young, innocent, lovely age,” said Quenesia Castaphney-White, the victim’s cousin.

Castaphney-White told Channel 11 that she watched the young boy grow up, and served as a caretaker for him when he was younger and his parents were at work.

“In our family, this has never happened, not one time, not one Castaphney died from a gunshot,” she said. “We have a faith-believing family and we believe he’s present with the Lord and he’s okay, but we’re here still living here in hell, it’s like living in hell.”

Castaphney-White described the victim as an intelligent, caring and silly boy.

“He lit up the room.”

A statement from Pittsburgh Public Schools described him similarly.

“His teachers remember him as thoughtful and kind with a big smile and sharp wit,” the statement read.

Donangelo had played basketball at Pittsburgh Westinghouse before transferring to Pittsburgh Allderdice, where he was in the “Gifted and Talented” program.

Family members told Channel 11 they don’t know who killed him, but they hope those responsible will come forward.

“I just pray for the people that have done this evilness and that their hearts will be changed,” said Albert Castaphney, the victim’s uncle.

“I don’t know how anyone sleeps at night taking the life of a teenager,” said Castaphney-White.

Pittsburgh Police have not identified any suspects or a suspected motive.