Police: Teen killed over small amount of marijuana; 4 arrested

EAST BRADFORD TWP., Pa. (WPVI) -- Police have made four arrests in the killing of a teen near West Chester, whose body was found by the side of a road.

Gerald Meyers, Onray Winfield, Darrell Woodward, and Byron Stevens have been charged with conspiracy, murder, robbery, and related offenses.

Investigators say the suspects set up a sham drug deal with 17-year-old Cristian Santiago, of West Chester, during which they robbed and killed him.

The suspects allegedly took a quarter ounce of marijuana and $30 from Santiago.

Santiago's body was found along Hillsdale Road near McIntosh in East Bradford Township around 10:20 p.m. Thursday.

Grieving family members said they were told by police Santiago had been shot multiple times and was dumped at that location.

District Attorney Tom Hogan said in a statement: "This case is a prime example of a brutal and senseless killing. The victim is dead, leaving behind a grieving family. The defendants are facing murder charges. All over a little marijuana and a few dollars."

Santiago was due to resume his education at Henderson High School this fall. Friends say the affable Santiago was looking forward to his senior year.

They described him as empathetic and trustworthy.

"Everyone loved him, he was always caring about his friends," said classmate Victoria Cain. "When one of his friends was in trouble he was the first one there, and you knew you could count on him."

"He was the coolest kid in West Chester to meet up with and hang out with," said another friend. "He was just an awesome person."

As the investigation continues, anybody with information is asked to contact the Chester County Detectives at 610-344-6866 or the West Chester Police Department at 610-696-2700.