FORWARD TOWNSHIP, Pa. — A father and son were found dead in a Forward Township home over the weekend and COVID-19 could be at the root of their deaths.
Police were called to an address on Homeplace Drive on Saturday for a welfare check. John Chepanoske’s employer had made the request after he was sent home from work last week after he tested positive for COVID-19.
When police got to the home, they knocked on the door and said the lights were on, plus they could hear dogs barking inside.
When nobody came to the door, officers forced their way inside and found Chepanoske and his 84-year-old father, William, both deceased.
Chepanoske’s elderly mother, who also suffers from dementia, was found in a back room alive in need of immediate medical attention.
Police said all three family members tested positive for COVID-19 and they don’t expect foul play.
Channel 11 also heard from John Chepanoske’s former classmate (class of 81), Susan O’Brien. She sent a yearbook photo of John and the following statement:
“My memories of John, during our high school years in the late 70s and early 80s, was that he was an unassuming guy. He was quiet and friendly to everyone. His smile was infectious and he had a calmness in his voice. John would never say anything bad about anyone. John Chepanoske was a gentle soul and his passing has shaken me to my core. I pray that John and his father did not suffer at the end of their life. My thoughts and prayers are with his mother, family and friends.”
This browser does not support the video element.