Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus calls for conclusion to Marchello Woodard case
Rep. Napoleon Nelson August 22, 2025 | 4:38 PM
HARRISBURG, Aug. 22 – The Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus called on the Pennsylvania State Police to conclude their investigation into the tragic loss of Marchello Woodard. Woodard was fatally shot in his Erie community on July 2 during an incident involving state parole agents.
“It has been 51 days since the Pennsylvania State Police and the Erie County District Attorney’s Office started investigating this incident, and no charges have been filed,” said state Rep. Napoleon Nelson, D-Montgomery, chair of the PLBC. “No family should have to endure the pain that Marchello’s has – dealing with the loss of a loved one without any answers, action, or meaningful reform. Our caucus demands full accountability for the events that led to this devastating loss of life.”
Woodard was reportedly unarmed during the July 2 incident and just two weeks away from the end of his parole. While no charges have been filed, the Erie County Coroner ruled Woodard’s death as a homicide after an autopsy was conducted. He was shot three times in the chest.
“We are calling for greater urgency and transparency from state officials working on this case,” Nelson said. “The use of fatal force in this incident raises urgent questions about safety, accountability and the interactions between parole agents and law enforcement in our communities. Fifty-one days is more than enough time to investigate this incident so that the legislature and public can find answers to our questions.
“Our communities should not have to live in fear of those who are meant to protect us. The PLBC remains committed to advancing justice, civil rights and systemic change to ensure that no one needs to endure such tragedies. We offer continued prayers to the Woodard family and entire Erie community.”