Wilkinsburg police investigate fatal shooting of Monroeville man found in car
WILKINSBURG, Pennsylvania — Authorities in Allegheny County are investigating the tragic death of 21-year-old Quaylyn Carter of Monroeville, who was found unresponsive inside a vehicle in Wilkinsburg early Tuesday morning, November 4, 2025. The incident, which police have classified as a homicide, occurred in the 1600 block of Penn Avenue, a residential area that has seen several violent incidents in recent years.
According to a statement from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 7:36 a.m. following a report from a passerby who noticed a vehicle parked along the curb with its engine running and an unresponsive occupant inside. Upon arrival, officers found a silver Nissan Altima with the driver’s side window shattered. Inside, they discovered 21-year-old Quaylyn Carter, who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds.
Emergency medical personnel from Wilkinsburg EMS and Allegheny County paramedics responded to the scene but determined that Carter had already passed prior to their arrival. He was officially pronounced deceased at the scene by the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office at approximately 7:55 a.m.
The area was quickly cordoned off as investigators began collecting evidence. Crime scene technicians recovered several shell casings near the vehicle, indicating that the shooting likely occurred at or near where the car was found. Detectives also canvassed nearby homes and businesses, requesting surveillance footage that may show the suspect or suspects involved.
Preliminary reports suggest that Carter may have been targeted, though authorities have not yet disclosed a possible motive. Residents in the neighborhood told investigators that they heard gunshots in the early morning hours, though no one initially called 911 at that time. One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “It sounded like five or six shots around 2 or 3 a.m., but we didn’t think much of it until the police came later.”
Quaylyn Carter, originally from Monroeville, was described by family members as a bright and caring young man who had recently begun taking classes at a local trade school while working part-time. Friends said he enjoyed sports and spending time with family and had a close bond with his younger siblings. His loved ones expressed devastation over his sudden loss, describing him as “a young man with a kind heart and big dreams.”
Carter’s mother, Tanya Carter, released a brief statement through social media, saying, “My baby didn’t deserve this. He was a good son who stayed out of trouble. We just want justice for Quaylyn.”
The Allegheny County Police Department’s Homicide Unit has taken over the investigation at the request of the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Detectives are interviewing witnesses and analyzing ballistic evidence to determine whether the shooting is connected to any recent violent incidents in the Pittsburgh area. No arrests have been made as of Wednesday morning.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Allegheny County Police Tip Line at 1-833-ALL-TIPS (1-833-255-8477). Anonymous tips can also be submitted online through the county’s official crime reporting portal.
This marks yet another tragic incident in Wilkinsburg, a borough that has faced ongoing challenges related to gun violence. Community leaders, including members of Stop the Violence Pittsburgh, expressed sorrow over the loss and renewed calls for peace. “We are losing too many young men to senseless acts,” said organizer Reggie Walker. “We need the community to come forward and help end this cycle.”
The Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death. Funeral arrangements for Quaylyn Carter are being coordinated by his family and are expected to be announced later this week.
As the investigation continues, family, friends, and community members are left to mourn the loss of a life taken far too soon. Candlelight vigils are being planned in both Wilkinsburg and Monroeville to honor Quaylyn’s memory and to bring attention to the ongoing issue of youth violence across Allegheny County.
The Wilkinsburg Police Department and Allegheny County detectives remain committed to finding those responsible and ensuring justice for Quaylyn Carter, whose passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hear ts of those who knew and loved him.