Mother Dies in Upper Darby Shooting During Custody Pickup

Mother Dies in Upper Darby Shooting During Custody Pickup

Fatal Shooting in Delaware County

UPPER DARBY, Pennsylvania — A 34‑year‑old woman was shot and killed Friday afternoon during what police described as a child custody exchange on the 200 block of Copley Road near Locust Street, authorities confirmed. Upper Darby police said the woman was in her vehicle with her three young children when a dispute with a 45‑year‑old man, believed to be the father of two of the children, escalated into gunfire.

Police responded to 911 calls reporting gunshots shortly after noon on December 26, 2025 and found the woman with a gunshot wound inside her car. Despite lifesaving efforts, she was later pronounced dead at the scene. According to police, the man then turned the firearm on himself following the shooting. Officers located him nearby and he was transported to a hospital, where he was reported to be in critical condition.

Children Present During Incident

Police confirmed that three children — ages 1, 4, and 6 — were in the backseat of the vehicle at the time of the shooting. None of the children were physically injured, but authorities expressed concern about the traumatic impact of witnessing the violence. After the incident, law enforcement secured the scene and made arrangements for the children to be placed with family members while investigators continued their work.

Family members later identified the woman as Shantal Snowden, 34, describing her as a devoted mother who cared deeply for her children. Relatives said she had left the man about a year and a half earlier and had been working to support her family. A neighbor who witnessed the aftermath of the shooting praised a passerby who quickly removed the children from the vehicle, potentially shielding them from further danger.

Police Statement and Investigation

Upper Darby Police Superintendent Timothy M. Bernhardt characterized the incident as a senseless act of domestic violence. Authorities said detectives were actively gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage from the area to better understand the events leading up to the shooting. Officials also emphasized that there was no ongoing threat to the community beyond the isolated incident.

Police noted that custody exchanges can sometimes involve emotional stress, but they condemned the use of violence during the process. Detectives are working with the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office to assess potential charges related to the incident. The identities of the man and woman were initially withheld pending formal next‑of‑kin notification, but family later publicly identified the deceased and offered statements about her life and character.

Community Reaction and Resources

Neighbors and community members expressed shock and sadness following the news of the shooting. Many described Upper Darby as a community where families and children are a central focus, and they said the violence was a stark reminder of the risks of unresolved conflict. Residents emphasized the importance of conflict resolution and support services for families experiencing separation challenges.

Local leaders and advocates noted that resources are available for individuals dealing with domestic disputes, including counseling and domestic violence hotlines. They encouraged anyone in a troubled relationship to seek help through appropriate channels rather than resorting to violence. Officials also urged those who may have witnessed aspects of the incident to contact Upper Darby police with information that could aid the investigation.

As the investigation continues, police have pledged to release additional details as they become available and reiterated that the community should report any relevant information to law enforcement.