Photographer Joe Shymanski's murder leads to trial of Pennsylvania man Brandon Holbrook

Joe Shymanski, a well-known photographer, was reported missing on September 4, 2023, after his ex-wife Heather Snyder arrived to exchange custody of their children and found the house empty. Law enforcement noted his vehicle, keys and phone remained on the property, prompting a search that later focused on Brandon Holbrook, who had been seen near the house by a license-plate reader. Holbrook was arrested in Pennsylvania later that month and charged with murder.

The trial began on March 31, 2025, with prosecutors presenting evidence of Holbrook’s proximity to the scene and his alleged motive, while the defense highlighted gaps in the timeline and questioned the identification of the driver. After deliberation, the jury found Holbrook guilty of first-degree premeditated murder, leading to a life-without-parole sentence. The case has left Shymanski’s family seeking closure and has sparked ongoing legal appeals.