Pennsylvania Pediatrician Allegedly Murdered by Husband Who Then Set Home on Fire
Investigators say Jonathan Gatto strangled his wife, Julia Pederson, before setting their Harrisburg home ablaze.
A pediatrician with Ivy League education was allegedly murdered by her husband, who then set their Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, home on fire, according to police.
Julia Pederson, 41, was reportedly strangled by her husband, Jonathan Gatto, 41, inside their home on Saturday, Oct. 10. Four days later, Gatto was arrested and charged with murder and arson, among other offenses.
Authorities stated that the investigation revealed the victim's death was not caused by the fire. Reports indicate that the couple's 7-year-old daughter was asleep in an upstairs bedroom at the time of the incident.
Pederson held degrees from Stanford University School of Medicine and Harvard University. She was certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and had recently begun a position at UPMC Children's Community Pediatrics in February.
A spokesperson for UPMC CCP released a statement mourning Pederson's death, describing her as a "devoted pediatrician" and a "valued member" of their team who "devoted her career to caring for children and supporting families."
Prior to her role at UPMC, Pederson provided pediatric care in Pennsylvania, California, and Chicago. An obituary stated that she "devoted herself to the health and well-being of children, providing care and support to the families who placed their trust in her."
Gatto is currently held in Dauphin County jail with no bond. His next court date is scheduled for Oct. 28.