Possible Murder Investigation Near Hazleton School

Butler Township police released a missing person report Tuesday for Samuel Vacante, 52, of Drums.

Vacante had been missing for less than 24 hours when the bulletin was released, stating that he was last heard from on Monday night around 8:30 PM.

A picture of Vacante and his vehicle were dispersed to news organizations and through social media by local police departments.

Unconfirmed sources state that a suicide note from Vacante was found.

Wednesday evening, Butler and Hazleton police had been conducting surveillance of a home at 33 10th Street near Manhattan Court, just feet from Hazleton Elementary/Middle School. (More commonly known as The Castle)

Around 1AM Thursday morning, officers from Butler Township and Hazleton City began openly conducting an investigation into the residence which is believed to be the home of a close aquaintance of Vacante.

Crews from Hazleton City, Butler Township, and State Police were in the area through 5pm Thursday, prompting the Castle to close for students for the day.

State Police forensics was on scene for the majority of the day and crews were seen removing bags which presumably contained evidence from the home.

State Police and Butler Police were also investigating Vacante's home in Drums as a related part of the investigation.

Many area residents were upset about the fact that the public was unaware of what was going on. Expressing concerns reguarding the school being closed for the day and other schools and homes in the area.

Classes are expected to be held as usual Friday in the Castle.

More information will be posted as it comes in.