Pittsfield, MA – The Pittsfield community is reeling after the tragic death of 17-year-old Brodie Slonski, a senior at Taconic High School, who was fatally shot Sunday evening in the city’s Morningside neighborhood. Family, friends, and classmates are mourning a young life full of promise, ambition, and kindness cut short in a senseless act of violence.
According to the Berkshire District Attorney’s Office, police responded to reports of a vehicle crash around 6:15 p.m. near 17 Parker Street. Officers discovered a white Honda HR-V that had collided with a tree, with Brodie unresponsive behind the wheel. Firefighters quickly extricated him from the vehicle and found he had suffered a gunshot wound to the chest. He was transported to Berkshire Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.
Investigators believe the car had been traveling down Franco Terrace, a quiet residential street, before striking the tree. Brodie was the only person in the vehicle. Authorities have not yet identified any suspects or determined a motive, and the case is currently being investigated as a homicide.
Brodie’s loss has left an immense void in the hearts of those who knew him. A talented and dedicated student, he was enrolled in Taconic High School’s metal fabrication program, with aspirations of pursuing that trade after graduation. His grandmother, Linda Marie Slonski, and aunt, Jennifer Wojtkowski, described him as a kind, respectful, and family-oriented young man who deeply cherished his loved ones.
“He always held his family in high regard,” Wojtkowski said. “He was a good kid. He was a good kid.”
Brodie was also known for his positive attitude and active participation in school activities. He played on Taconic’s golf and bowling teams, and was part of the group honored by Pittsfield Mayor Peter Marchetti for winning the 2024 Massachusetts State High School Division II Bowling Championship. Recently, he had been working at Subway, where he had been promised a managerial position upon turning 18, reflecting his responsibility and drive.
Neighbors reported hearing a gunshot followed by a loud crash around the time of the incident. Emergency responders arrived within minutes, and investigators remained on scene for hours collecting evidence and requesting residents review any home surveillance footage.
The death of Brodie Slonski has profoundly impacted Pittsfield, leaving teachers, classmates, friends, and family in shock and grief. Those who knew him remember a young man of integrity, ambition, and kindness, whose bright future was tragically cut short.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death. As the community mourns, family and friends hope that justice will be served for Brodie and that his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
Brodie Slonski’s life, though tragically brief, will be remembered for his hard work, dedication, and the positive impact he made on everyone around him.