Man Sentenced to 43 to 100 Years for Fatal Fentanyl Injection and Bridge Dumping
Steven Gaddis, aged 28, has been handed a severe prison term of 43 to 100 years after pleading guilty to multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit third-degree murder, aggravated assault, kidnapping, and intimidation of a witness. This case revolves around the tragic death of 25-year-old Matthew Whisman, whose remains were discovered in Maryland, Pennsylvania, in August 2024.
Gruesome Details of the Crime
According to authorities, the incident unfolded after Gaddis accessed Whisman's phone and discovered messages indicating he was cooperating with police in an investigation into shots fired at a residence belonging to his brother in January 2024. This revelation allegedly triggered a violent response from Gaddis and two others, Jeremy Absher and Alexander Whisman, who are cousins of the victim.
The trio is accused of beating Matthew Whisman, forcing him to shower and clean up, and then moving him to a basement. Prosecutors state that during this time, Gaddis made a chilling remark, asking, "How would you feel if it's your last supper." Shortly after, Matthew reportedly dropped his head and began crying.
Lethal Injection and Bridge Dumping
State Police and the Lancaster County District Attorney's Office allege that the suspects then forced Matthew Whisman into a vehicle and injected him with a lethal dose of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid. As he overdosed, Gaddis and Absher allegedly threw his remains off a bridge into the Conowingo Creek. The victim was not reported missing until July 2024, when his mother contacted police after not hearing from him for an extended period.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
All three suspects faced 11 charges related to the death, including murder, kidnapping to facilitate a felony, and intimidation of a witness. However, only Steven Gaddis has pleaded guilty, with the cases against Jeremy Absher and Alexander Whisman still progressing through the court system. The sentencing reflects the severity of the crimes, highlighting the brutal nature of the attack and its connection to witness intimidation in a police investigation.
This case underscores the dangers of drug-related violence and the extreme measures taken by perpetrators to silence informants, resulting in a lengthy prison sentence for the primary offender.
