Watch CBS News

Investigation Continues In Butler Co. Shooting Involving Off-Duty Trooper

BUTLER (KDKA) – As the investigation into why an off-duty state trooper fatally shot a neighbor, an application for a search warrant serves as guide to what police are looking for.

"He was well-loved by all family and friends and we'll remember he was the musical heart of our family," said Bob Barkus, father of 25-year-old Kristopher Barkus.

As Barkus' family is trying to make sense of his death, the Butler County district attorney's office and other agencies are review evidence from September Drive, where the victim and state trooper lived.

According to the affidavit to support a search warrant, Tpr. Brian Knirnschild said he noticed that his daughter was pointing to a man wielding a gun outside their home. It says Knirnschild then commanded Barkus to drop the weapon. Butler Township Police found three casings at the scene.

State Police have confirmed that what Barkus has was a Powerline Air Strike 240 air gun, which looks a lot like a gun that fires bullets.

The affidavit says the trooper's wife called 911 at 8:04 p.m. and that Barkus' brother said the victim was prescribed medications for depression and that a separate search warrant revealed medications and drug paraphernalia in the backpack Barkus carried that night.

It also says Barkus' fiancé told investigators that on his way out the door that night, Barkus said he was going to jump off a bridge.

The Butler County district attorney anticipates he may have a decision in this case by mid-week.

RELATED LINKS
Family Mourns Man Killed In Shooting Involving Off-Duty Trooper
1 Dead In Shooting Involving Off-Duty Officer In Butler Co.

Join The Conversation, Like KDKA On Facebook
Follow KDKA On Twitter

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.