Linda Fortuna, Terry Muller Obituary, Death – Authorities in Lackawanna County have released the names of the victims involved in a tragic and violent incident that occurred Tuesday night in downtown Scranton. The event has shaken the community and prompted an extensive investigation by local law enforcement and prosecutors.
According to the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office, two residents of the Jermyn Apartments lost their lives in the attack. The victims have been identified as 61-year-old Linda Fortuna and 59-year-old Terry Muller. Officials also confirmed that Muller’s service dog, a golden retriever named Nayla, was killed during the incident. The loss of the animal added another layer of heartbreak to an already devastating situation.
A third resident, 66-year-old Marilyn Waller, was also seriously injured during the same episode. She was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she remains in critical condition. Authorities have not released further details about her current prognosis but stated that medical professionals are continuing to monitor and treat her.
The violent encounter occurred on the sixth floor of the Jermyn Apartments, a residential building located in the downtown area. Police responded to the scene after receiving emergency calls reporting a disturbance inside the building. Upon arriving, they learned that the suspect, identified as 38-year-old Michael Woods, had allegedly attacked the three women.
Law enforcement officers located Woods as he exited the building and were able to take him into custody without further incident. Officials said that he did not attempt to flee far from the scene before police intervention. The quick response by officers ensured that no additional individuals were harmed.
During a press briefing on Wednesday, District Attorney Brian Gallagher provided additional background information on the suspect. Gallagher stated that Woods had been living at the Jermyn Apartments since 2020 and had previously moved to the area from Jersey City, New Jersey. Investigators are reviewing his history, behavior, and circumstances leading up to the attack as they work to understand what may have motivated the incident. At this time, authorities have not publicly disclosed a possible motive, noting that the investigation remains active.
Woods is currently being held at the Lackawanna County Prison. Prosecutors have filed a range of serious charges against him, including two counts of criminal homicide, one count of attempted homicide, two counts of aggravated assault, and one count related to harm to an animal. These charges reflect both the loss of life and the injuries sustained by the victims.
He has a scheduled court appearance on December 23, where additional details about the case may be presented. Prosecutors are expected to outline the evidence gathered so far, and the court will address the next steps in the legal process.
The Scranton community has been deeply affected by the news of this event. Residents of the Jermyn Apartments and the surrounding area have expressed shock and sadness, noting that such incidents are rare in their neighborhood. Supporters have offered condolences to the families of Fortuna and Muller, while also expressing hope for Waller’s recovery.
Local officials have called for patience as investigators continue gathering information, reviewing evidence, and interviewing witnesses. Authorities have stressed that ensuring a thorough and accurate investigation is a top priority. They also thanked the responding officers and emergency workers for their rapid action, which prevented further harm.
As the legal process unfolds, community members continue to reflect on the impact of the tragedy and support those affected. The coming weeks are expected to bring additional updates from both law enforcement and the District Attorney’s Office as they work toward accountability and justice in this heartbreaking case.
