South Beaver Township, PA – The quiet suburban community of South Beaver Township was shaken by a tragic incident on New Year’s Eve that left two people dead in a garage on Gill Drive. Authorities have identified the victims as Joyce Kostandin, 41, and her estranged husband, John Kostandin, 48.
Joyce was fatally shot multiple times in the head and chest, a death that has been ruled a homicide. John was found dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound in the same garage, leading investigators to classify the case as a murder-suicide.
As the community processes the loss and investigators piece together what led to this devastating event, friends, family, and neighbors are left grappling with grief and unanswered questions.
A Shocking Discovery
On December 31, 2024, just hours before the arrival of the new year, South Beaver Township police received a 911 call reporting gunshots in a residential neighborhood. Responding officers arrived at the residence on Gill Drive around 7:30 p.m., where they discovered a grim scene in the detached garage behind the home.
Joyce Kostandin’s lifeless body was found near the entrance of the garage. She had sustained multiple gunshot wounds to her head and chest, suggesting a deliberate and violent attack. Nearby, officers discovered John’s body, a handgun lying beside him.
Both were pronounced dead at the scene by Beaver County Coroner David Gabauer. Preliminary findings indicate that John shot Joyce before turning the weapon on himself.
A Troubled Relationship
According to neighbors and friends, the Kostandins had been going through a difficult separation in the months leading up to the tragedy. Joyce had moved out of the family home earlier in the year and was living with relatives while pursuing divorce proceedings.
“She was trying to start a new chapter in her life,” said a close friend who asked to remain anonymous. “Joyce was a loving mother, a kind soul, and someone who just wanted to find peace.”
Court records reveal that Joyce had filed for divorce in late October, citing irreconcilable differences. Friends also mentioned that she had confided about feeling unsafe due to John’s increasingly erratic behavior.
“He wasn’t handling the separation well,” said a family acquaintance. “There were times when he would show up unannounced or send her threatening messages. She was scared, but she didn’t think it would come to this.”
The Night of the Incident
Authorities are working to establish a timeline of events leading up to the fatal shooting. Initial investigations suggest that Joyce may have gone to the Gill Drive residence to collect personal belongings or meet with John to discuss unresolved matters.
“We believe the meeting was pre-arranged,” said South Beaver Township Police Chief Michael Carleton. “However, it appears that tensions escalated, resulting in this tragic outcome.”
Detectives have not confirmed whether there were any witnesses or if Joyce was lured to the garage under false pretenses. Forensic teams are analyzing the scene for additional evidence, including ballistic reports and security camera footage from nearby homes.
Remembering Joyce Kostandin
Joyce Kostandin was a beloved member of the South Beaver Township community, known for her warmth, generosity, and dedication to her two teenage children.
“She was the kind of person who would do anything for her kids,” said her sister, Karen Whitmore. “They were her world, and she worked so hard to give them a better life.”
A devoted mother, Joyce had been balancing a full-time job as a nurse with her responsibilities at home. Friends and colleagues describe her as a compassionate caregiver who always went the extra mile for her patients.
“She had a light about her,” said Angela Peterson, a coworker at the local hospital. “Her smile could brighten anyone’s day. It’s heartbreaking to think about how her life was cut short in such a cruel way.”
John Kostandin: A Man Struggling with Loss
While Joyce was described as vibrant and optimistic about her future, those close to John say he had been struggling with the separation and exhibited signs of emotional instability in the months leading up to the incident.
“John was always a bit of a hothead, but he loved his family,” said a former neighbor. “When Joyce left, it seemed like he just unraveled. He didn’t know how to cope.”
Friends noted that John had withdrawn from social circles and expressed anger and resentment over the divorce. Despite these red flags, many were shocked to learn of the violent turn of events.
“No one thought he was capable of something like this,” said a family acquaintance. “It’s a tragedy all around.”
The Impact on Their Children
The Kostandins leave behind two teenage children who are now grappling with the unimaginable loss of both parents. Relatives have stepped in to provide support and ensure the children have a stable environment during this difficult time.
“They’re devastated,” said Karen Whitmore, who is acting as the children’s guardian. “We’re doing everything we can to help them through this, but it’s going to be a long road.”
Local organizations, including the Beaver County Crisis Support Network, have offered counseling services to the family and community members affected by the tragedy.
A Community in Mourning
The news of the murder-suicide has left South Beaver Township residents reeling. Vigils have been held in Joyce’s memory, with neighbors and friends gathering to light candles, share memories, and offer prayers for her children.
“She didn’t deserve this,” said a neighbor. “Joyce was a wonderful person, and our community will feel her loss for a long time.”
The tragedy has also sparked conversations about domestic violence and the importance of recognizing warning signs. Advocates are urging individuals experiencing similar situations to seek help and take steps to protect themselves.
Seeking Answers and Justice
As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials are working to provide closure to the Kostandin family and ensure the community feels safe.
“This is a tragic case, but it also serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing domestic violence and mental health issues,” said Chief Carleton.
Authorities have encouraged anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward.
Raising Awareness About Domestic Violence
The murder-suicide has reignited conversations about the prevalence of domestic violence and the resources available to those in need. Organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) provide 24/7 support and guidance for individuals in crisis.
Local shelters and advocacy groups in Beaver County are also stepping up efforts to educate the community and provide safe spaces for those seeking refuge.
“We want people to know that help is available,” said Mary Connors, director of the Beaver County Women’s Center. “No one should have to live in fear.”
Honoring Joyce’s Legacy
Friends and family have set up a memorial fund in Joyce’s name to support her children’s education and provide resources for domestic violence awareness programs.
“We want her memory to mean something,” said Karen Whitmore. “Joyce was all about helping others, and we want to carry that forward.”
Donations can be made through the Joyce Kostandin Memorial Fund, which will directly benefit her children and support local advocacy efforts.
Moving Forward
As South Beaver Township mourns this tragic loss, the community is rallying around the Kostandin children and one another. While the pain of this event will linger, Joyce’s legacy of kindness and resilience will serve as a beacon of hope for those seeking to overcome adversity.
For now, the Kostandin family and the South Beaver Township community are left to grieve, heal, and honor the memory of a woman whose life was taken far too soon.
