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'I Wish I Could Take His Place': Recently Retired Delaware County Teacher Dies After Being Shot In Head By Neighbor, Police Say

CHESTER HEIGHTS, Pa. (CBS) -- A former Delaware County teacher has died from his injuries after being shot over the weekend. Pennsylvania State Police confirmed to CBS3 that 44-year-old Joseph Iavarone died after being shot in the head by his neighbor in Chester Heights on Sunday.

joseph iavarone
Photo of Joseph Iavarone, (credit: Iavarone family)

Iavarone's neighbor, 49-year-old John Ballas, was arrested at the scene. It happened Sunday on the 100 block of Bishops Drive.

Iavarone was a former teacher in the Garnet Valley School District.

School officials said they'll have counseling services for students, faculty and staff at the schools Tuesday in the wake of the shooting.

Iavarone's father is in disbelief over his son's death.

"This whole situation is a complete, I wish I could take his place, but that's not possible," said Andrew Iavarone.

It's not clear what prompted the shooting. Joseph Iavarone was listed in critical condition before passing away Monday night.

Iavarone's older sister, Lori Iavarone, described her brother as a loving father of two and a good person.

"He was happy go lucky, always smiling and would help you out," she said. "A wonderful school teacher, just a tragedy."

Joseph Iavarone retired a few weeks ago from the school district after almost 20 years. His family says he retired for personal and professional reasons.

He was also a varsity high school football coach where he once played, and later coached football at Garnet Valley Middle School.

Although gone in spirit, Iavarone's father hopes to meet his son once again.

"We made him a donor so his heart is going to be with someone and I want to meet that person and hug him," Andrew Iavarone said.

Ballas has been charged in the fatal shooting. He was remanded to Delaware County Prison and is due back in court next month.

CBS3's Chantee Lans contributed to this report.

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