Kelvin Roberts – Investigators have identified a suspect connected to a deadly home invasion in Lower Merion Township, Pennsylvania, where a young man lost his life and his mother was critically injured. The violent break-in occurred early Sunday morning around 2:20 a.m. at a residence on Meredith Road.
On Monday, the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office issued an arrest warrant for 42-year-old Kelvin Roberts, a Philadelphia resident. Roberts faces multiple charges, including second-degree murder, robbery, burglary, and related offenses. Authorities believe Roberts and at least one other accomplice broke into the home, ultimately leading to the tragic shooting of 25-year-old Andrew Gaudio and his 61-year-old mother, Bernadette Gaudio.
Andrew was pronounced dead at the scene, while Bernadette was rushed to Lankenau Medical Center. She remains in critical condition, but District Attorney Kevin Steele expressed hope for her recovery during a press conference on Monday.
Despite her injuries, Bernadette managed to call 911, which proved to be a critical step in the investigation. According to a criminal complaint, the attackers could be heard searching through the house in the background of the call. Officials believe the suspects entered the home through the basement.
Andrew Gaudio, who tragically lost his life, appeared to have confronted the intruders in an effort to protect his mother. “The son Andrew who was killed, I believe he fought back and tried to help his mom in the circumstance. Again, this is a terrible, terrible case,” Steele said, reflecting on the tragedy.
A significant break in the case came when law enforcement reviewed dashcam footage recorded as officers responded to the crime scene. The footage captured a white Hyundai Azera, allegedly driven by Roberts, leaving the area. Additionally, the video showed the victim’s green Jeep Cherokee being driven away from the property.
The investigation led officers to a residence on Sansom Street in Philadelphia, where they executed a search warrant. Inside, they discovered the stolen Jeep and a jewelry box belonging to Bernadette Gaudio. These findings have provided crucial evidence linking Roberts to the crime, though authorities are still working to identify and apprehend any additional suspects involved.
The motive behind the violent invasion remains unclear. However, Steele described those responsible as “dangerous” and emphasized the importance of public assistance in locating the suspects. “We’re dealing with dangerous people here, and we need the public’s help. Anybody that knows where they are or has any information that would help us find others involved, please come forward,” Steele urged.
The devastating incident has left the close-knit community of Lower Merion in shock. Neighbors expressed their grief and concern for the family, particularly as the tragedy unfolded during the holiday season. “It’s heartbreaking for the family. It’s heartbreaking for the community,” said one resident. Another neighbor, Sergio Johnson, echoed similar sentiments, saying, “I’m sad for the family, and that’s the only thing I can think of right now, especially around the holidays.”
Community members have pledged their support to the Gaudio family during this difficult time. “I hope the family knows they can lean on any of us and reach out to any of us, and we’ll be there to help,” one neighbor said, underscoring the solidarity within the neighborhood.
To encourage tips and expedite the investigation, a $5,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest. Anyone with details about the case is urged to contact the Lower Merion Police Department at 610-278-3386 or the Montgomery County Detective at the same number.
As authorities work tirelessly to bring the perpetrators to justice, the community mourns the loss of Andrew Gaudio, a young man whose bravery and love for his mother were evident in his final moments. Meanwhile, hopes remain high for Bernadette’s recovery, as she fights for her life in the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy.