Slain Troy Family Was Widely Loved And Respected, Pastor Says

TROY, NY — A mother and her two children found slain in a Troy basement apartment were widely loved and respected in the neighborhood, a local pastor said. The Rev. Jackie Robinson, a member of the African American Pastoral Alliance, said Shanta Myers, 36, worked as a bus monitor and her children were active in youth programs.

Myers, her 5-year-old daughter, Shanise, and her 11-year-old son, Jeremiah, were found dead on Tuesday, police said. Myers' partner, Brandi Mells, 22, was also found dead.

Robinson said he didn't know Mells, but that kids at the youth center where Jeremiah played basketball were distraught and crying after learning of the killings. Community members were nervous because the killer remains at large, he said.

Officials have released few details since a property manager found the bodies. Police Chief John Tedesco said he had "never seen savagery like this" in 42 years in law enforcement.

Police are asking the public for any information relating to the case. No suspect has been identified publicly.

Image via Shutterstock