Police: Homeowner Shoots, Kills Young Man Trying To Force His Way Into House
CRESCENT TOWNSHIP (KDKA) -- Police say a young man was shot and killed overnight while trying to force his way into a Crescent Township home.
According to Allegheny County Police, officers and paramedics were called to the scene along Starr Road just after midnight.
"I happened to be up watching TV late last night, and I heard what I thought was a gunshot, and I blew it off assuming it couldn't be gunshot, because we have a very quiet neighborhood," said Ryan Mann, a neighbor.
Police say it all started a short time before when a 22-year-old man showed up at the house, asking if a specific person was there. The 59-year-old homeowner told the man there was no one there by that name.
"The young man asks for someone named Jamison, who we think might be a former girlfriend," said Insp. Andrew Schurman, of Allegheny County Police.
The homeowner then shut and locked the door.
Investigators say that's when the younger man tried to force his way into the home, and the homeowner fired multiple shots, hitting the alleged intruder, who collapsed in the doorway.
"Then, that man, the homeowner, called police. While he was on the phone with 911, the young man on the porch began screaming at the homeowner to open the door and then threatened to kick the door in, and ultimately, did kick the door in, and at that point, the homeowner discharged his firearm," said Insp. Schurman.
The Allegheny County Medical Examiner's Office has identified him as 22-year-old Corey Laguardia of Hopewell Township. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
At this time, police say no charges have been filed against the homeowner, who has not been identified.
However, the investigation is ongoing, and police say the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office will make the final determination when the probe is complete.
"I feel bad for the young man's family... probably didn't deserve to die, but under the circumstances, I think the homeowner was justified," said Mann.
Anyone with information on the incident is asked to call the Allegheny County Police TipLine at 1-833-ALL-TIPS (1-833-255-8477).
