Joe Shymanski: Pennsylvania man Brandon Holbrook arrested for alleged murder of missing DC photographer
REEDSVILLE, PENNSYLVANIA: Joe Shymanski, a well-known photographer in Washington, DC, went missing, leaving behind many unanswered questions.
According to the Calvert County Sheriff's Office, Joseph Anthony Shymanski, 51, of Huntingtown, Maryland, was reported missing on Sunday, September 4.
Detectives found evidence of foul play during their investigation and connected Shymanski to a man in Reedsville, Pennsylvania, per the sheriff's office.
As per FOX 5, Brandon R Holbrook was taken into custody in Reedsville and he was charged with first-degree murder, second-degree murder and first-degree assault.
It also reportedly came to light that Holbrook was Shymanski's ex-wife's significant other, per DC News Now.
Joe Shymanski went missing from his home in Huntingtown
Shymanski, a father-of-two living, went missing from his home.
Authorities found he had abandoned his phone, car, and keys, sparking worry among his family and friends. The absence was significantly out of character for Shaymanski, who was known to be committed to his two young children.
Shymanski's family and friends turned to social media to find out where he was. The neighborhood came together to support the hunt for Shymanski after it became clear that something was wrong.
Shymanski was reportedly well-liked by his friends, Mike and Robyn Goecke. He grew up in Michigan with Mike, and they shared a dorm in college.
According to the authorities, human remains that they suspect were connected to the Shymanski's murder were discovered in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, on Thursday, September 7.
Authorities reportedly said the remains were found within "several hundred yards of Holbrook’s residence."
The sheriff's office stated that the remains had not yet undergone a formal identification.
Joe Shymanski’s work left an indelible mark on the community
Shymanski's contributions to the community as a photographer have left a lasting impression.
Shymanski, who is known for his distinctive fusion of fandom and Legos, has used popular symbols like Star Wars Lego models to illustrate more significant social themes.
His photographs covered the walls of Capitol Hill's Eastern Market and Washington, DC's Holiday Market, creating a deep impression on everyone who saw them.
Shymanski's camera captures the character of several eateries in the District, including those run by chef Spike Mendelssohn.
His images captured restaurant debuts, delectable meals and the culinary world, weaving together a visual history of DC's culinary scene.
Tributes pour in for Joe Shymanski
In addition to being a photographer, his friends told News4 that Shymanski was also a musician, a teacher and a kind man who believed in the best in everyone.
Mike said, "He loved bringing joy to people. He got to make a living bringing joy to people and he just thought he was the luckiest guy on the planet."
Another friend of Shymanski's wrote on Facebook, "He was the best Dad, the fun Dad, the let's go have a slumber party at the Embassy Suites so we can take advantage of happy hour, the free pool and the free breakfast, and drop balloons off the balcony Dad, the let me take your kiddo on an adventure Dad. We are going to miss him so much."
Someone else noted, "Your loss is one that will never leave you. Please know how much your dad loves you. He will always be with you. I wish all the best for you and will always be rooting for you. I hope to see you soon."
Brandon Holbrook arrested as suspect in Joe Shymanski's murder
During the agonizing search for Shymanski, a breakthrough was made when the investigators realized something terrifying.
The case of the missing person quickly became a criminal inquiry, and they focused on Holbrook. Detectives traveled to Reedsville and detained Holbrook.
