Police identify Lansingburgh quadruple homicide victims

TROY — City Police on Thursday released the identities of the four victims murdered in their Second Avenue basement apartment.

Shanta Myers, 36, her two children Shanise Myers, 5, and Jeremiah “JJ” Myers, 11, and Shanta Myer’sdomestic partner Brandi Mells, 22, were found dead in their apartment at 158 Second Ave. in Troy by the building’s property manager a day after Christmas.

Troy Police chief John Tedesco assured the public on Wednesday that there is no imminent danger as it appears the victims were targeted

“There are indications at the crime scene that this was not a random act,” Tedesco said at a press conference. “We are certainly appealing to people in the community that would have any knowledge as to what may have transpired there to contact us as soon as possible.”

Troy City School District Superintendent John Carmello on Thursday said in a statement that the district would offer grief counseling to students. Shanise was a student at School 14, and Jeremiah went to Troy Middle School.

“Our hearts are broken and our thoughts and deepest condolences are with their family and loved ones during this terribly troubling time,” Carmello wrote in a letter. “The Troy City School District is a close and supportive community and the loss of two of our innocent and promising children is especially devastating. Please look out for each other and keep Shanise, JJ, and their family in your hearts and minds.”

In partnership with the Boys and Girls Club, the district is to offer grief counseling beginning at 10 a.m. Friday at Troy Middle School. Members of the school’s crisis response team also will be available next week to meet with students at School 14 and Troy middle school.

Police have not said how the victims were killed, nor any details on possible a suspect(s).

The investigation is ongoing.

 

This report was adapted from the Albany Times Union.