Two Killed, Seven Injured in Penn Hills Bar Shooting
ICARO Media Group
In a tragic incident that unfolded early Sunday morning, two people were killed and seven others were injured in a mass shooting at Ballers Hookah Lounge and Cigar Bar in Penn Hills, Pennsylvania.
The Penn Hills Police Department received a distressing call just before 3 a.m. regarding a shooting incident at the popular establishment on Laketon Road. According to Allegheny County police, one of the injured individuals is in critical condition, while the remaining six sustained serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.
Upon arriving at the crime scene, officers discovered the lifeless bodies of a man and a woman inside the bar. Four men and three women were also found to have suffered gunshot wounds and were promptly transported to local hospitals for treatment either by ambulance or private vehicles.
Superintendent Chris Kearns of the Allegheny County Police expressed that they believe there were two or more shooters responsible for the rampage. The investigation is still in its early stages as authorities work diligently to unravel the details surrounding the incident.
Preliminary findings indicate that a fight broke out within the bar, which ultimately escalated into gunfire. Disturbingly, this is not the first time the establishment has encountered violence. Superintendent Kearns revealed that Penn Hills police have responded to two shooting incidents at the location within the past month, though no fatalities were recorded on those occasions.
Despite the presence of signs prohibiting firearms at the venue, weapons managed to find their way inside. A security guard, speaking anonymously, revealed that multiple guards were stationed at the entrance, raising concerns over the security protocols at the business.
As investigators continue their efforts to identify the culprits, KDKA-TV made attempts to reach out to Ballers Hookah Lounge and Cigar Bar for a statement but did not receive a response. Any individuals with information regarding the incident are urged to contact county police at 1-833-ALL-TIPS, and anonymity is guaranteed for callers.
Local Penn Hills resident Rena Parrotte initially thought the commotion occurred elsewhere, only to discover that the tragic event unfolded right in front of her home. Expressing her shock and concern, she shared her hope for change and an end to the gun violence that has plagued the community.
"It's sad to hear that people going to enjoy themselves can't really enjoy themselves too much anymore nowadays," Parrotte said. "Let's just put the guns down, please."
The Penn Hills community is left reeling from the devastating loss of life and injuries caused by this senseless act of violence. As the investigation progresses, authorities will undoubtedly seek justice for the victims and work to prevent such incidents from recurring in the future.