Beloved Pennsylvania mother killed by ex during custody exchange

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UPPER DARBY, Pa. — Pennsylvania mother Shantal Snowden, 34, was shot and killed last month during a custody exchange in Upper Darby, police said. Her ex‑boyfriend then shot himself in front of their three young children.

The incident happened near Locust Street and Copley Road.

Custody Exchange Claims Life of Beloved Pennsylvania Worker

Snowden arrived to pick up her children, ages 1, 4, and 6. The children got into the backseat while she sat in the driver’s seat. Her 45‑year‑old ex entered the passenger side.

Police said the pair began arguing. The man then took out a gun and shot Snowden. He then shot himself. First responders took him to a hospital. Officials have not released his condition.

The children were not physically hurt, though they witnessed the entire event, investigators said.

Family Remembers Shantal Snowden as a Devoted Mother

Snowden’s mother, Darlene Snowden, told NBC10 her daughter lived for her children. “She loved her kids,” she said. “She did everything to make sure their life was as beautiful as possible.”

Loved ones said Snowden had a generous heart and often helped others. They also said her relationship with her ex had long been unstable.

“It was always an explosion of anger,” Darlene said. “He never hit her, but he was unpredictable.”

Snowden left the relationship about a year and a half ago. She later married a man her family described as “wonderful.”

Neighbor Pulled Children to Safety

A neighbor rushed to help the children moments after the shooting. Darlene said she is grateful someone acted fast. “I want to thank the person who took them to safety,” she said. “It could have been them.”

Family members said police later told them the ex‑boyfriend died after being taken off life support. Authorities have not publicly confirmed his death.

Children Face Trauma After Losing Their Mother

Darlene said the children continue to wake up crying at night. “They’re screaming,” she said. “I hold them and tell them their mom is in heaven.”

She said the family is focused on helping the children heal while they grieve the loss of their mother.

GoFundMe Launched to Support Shantal Snowden’s Children

Loved ones created a GoFundMe campaign to support Snowden’s three children. The fundraiser will help cover ongoing needs.

To learn more, visit the official GoFundMe page.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), visiting www.thehotline.org or texting LOVEIS to 22522.