Columbia Borough Investigates Fatal Stabbing Death as Homicide

COLUMBIA, Pa. — Columbia Borough Police are investigating a homicide after a 26-year-old Marietta man was found suffering from a fatal stab wound during the early morning hours of Wednesday, July 8, 2026.

According to authorities, officers were dispatched to the area of Third Street and Linden Street shortly before 1:00 a.m. for a report of a suspicious death. Upon arrival, police discovered Anthony Stoy‑Velazquez, 26, of Marietta, lying in the eastbound lane of the 200 block of Linden Street with a stab wound to his chest.

Despite those efforts, Stoy‑Velazquez was pronounced dead. His body was transported to the Lancaster County Forensic Center for examination. Authorities have stated that an autopsy is scheduled as the investigation continues.

The Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office and Columbia Borough Police are treating the case as a homicide investigation. Detectives are currently interviewing potential witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and gathering evidence to determine what led to the fatal stabbing.

The incident has shocked many residents throughout Columbia Borough, where neighbors awoke Wednesday morning to police activity and road closures surrounding the crime scene. Authorities temporarily shut down the intersection and surrounding streets while investigators processed evidence. The roadways have since reopened.

As of Wednesday evening, police had not publicly announced any arrests or identified any suspects in connection with the homicide. Investigators are urging anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area or who has security camera footage from the vicinity of Third and Linden Streets to come forward.

Police Seeking Public’s Help

Anyone with information regarding the death of Anthony Stoy‑Velazquez is encouraged to contact the Columbia Borough Police Department at:

Phone: 717‑684‑7735

Police say even seemingly minor details could prove important in helping investigators piece together the events surrounding the homicide and provide answers to the victim’s family and loved ones.

The investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact authorities immediately.