Fatal Shooting In Lawrenceville Under Investigation

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- The investigation continues today after a man was fatally wounded late Wednesday night inside of a bar in Pittsburgh's Lawrenceville neighborhood.

Investigators say they believe the shooting may have been accidental. It happened in the 4500-block of Butler Street at Salac's Tavern.

Authorities were called to the scene around 11 p.m. for a report of a bartender who sustained a gunshot wound.

According to preliminary reports, the victim may have been twirling the firearm around when it went off, wounding him.

Pittsburgh police say the detective who arrived on the scene first found the door to the bar locked and had to wait for someone with a key to arrive.

Once inside, officials say they found the man with a gunshot wound to the head.

The 52-year-old man from Morningside, identified by investigators as John Popinski, was taken to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Police say a .357 revolver was recovered at the scene.

Stay with KDKA for the latest details.