Man accused in fatal stabbing was ‘frustrated, cold and wanted a cigarette’
A man told police he was frustrated, cold and wanted a cigarette when he kicked in the cellar door of a Mount Washington home and stabbed his father and brother, killing the former and critically wounding the latter, according to the charges against him.
Javon Rashi Taylor, 31, is charged with homicide in connection with the death of 72-year-old Vincent Roebuck on Wednesday morning. The Allegheny County medical examiner ruled Thursday he died of a stab wound to the heart.
Two separate 911 calls sent police to a home on Southern Avenue just before 8 a.m. One man reported that someone kicked in the basement door, according to the complaint. A woman also called and said that she wasn’t home, but her paralyzed husband had called her and asked her to call 911.
The younger man in the home told 911 that his brother, later identified as Taylor, broke into the home and stabbed both the caller and his father, according to the complaint.
Records show a protection from abuse order against Taylor barred him from harassing his brother or coming into the Southern Avenue home. It was set to be in place until 2024.
Mr. Roebuck and his son were both taken to the hospital for their wounds. Mr. Roebuck was pronounced dead later Wednesday morning. His son remained in critical but stable condition.
Inside the home, investigators found two broken and bent knives.
Officers found Taylor about eight blocks away sitting in the window of a laundromat, according to the complaint. He was taken into custody without incident.
Investigators said Taylor admitted to the stabbing and said it was because “he was frustrated, cold and wanted a cigarette.” Officers noted cuts on his hands and left knee.
In addition to homicide, Taylor is charged with attempted homicide, aggravated assault, burglary and reckless endangerment. He was treated for his injuries and arraigned early Thursday morning in front of District Judge Thomas Brletic, who ordered Taylor be held without bail.
Court records did not list a defense attorney. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Dec. 9.