There is an “extremely active” shooter situation happening in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Allegheny County Sheriff officers attempted to evict a resident in the Garfield area earlier today. During the attempt the suspect opened fire on the deputies, according to local officials. Authorities have issued a warning for people to stay away from the area.
What Is Happening
The suspect is basically a squatter. The home was owned by a relative, however, that person passed away and the taxes to the home had not been paid. Furthermore, the banks took control of the household and it was sold in auction.
The active shooter situation is happening on the 4800 block of Broad Street and North Mathilda Street. Pittsburgh Public Safety announced the dangerous incident on X (formerly known as Twitter) a little after 11 a.m. on Wednesday morning. Later on they posted an update saying that the active shooter is still continuing to fire its weapon.
Authorities are evacuating nearby residents. Pittsburg Police SWAT team have taken over the investigation and the scene. The FBI are there to assist and all questions have been diverted to the local authorities.
Large Amount of Ammunition Fired
It is believe the active shooter has fired “hundreds of rounds” so far. Additionally, the suspect shot down to police drones. At this time there have been no reports of anyone injured by the gunfire. However, there have been a few reported injuries from broken glass.
Garfield residents are in shock with what is currently happening in their neighborhood. If anyone happens to be in the 4000 block of where the active shooter situation is happening they have been asked to call 911 to alert authorities to their location.
The city of Pittsburg are still in control of the situation. However, State Police will be taking over the scene soon.
How Prepared Is the Active Shooter
It is unclear how much ammunition the suspect has on hand. However, it is safe to assume the active shooter knew they were going to be evicted and prepared to stand their ground.
The new homeowners’ attorney stated officials knew the suspect may be dangerous. According to the man’s social media accounts he may be antigovernmental and believes himself to be sovereign. Additionally, it is believed the active shooter his highly armed and prepared.
Neighbors and businesses nearby have told reporters they began hearing gunfire around 11 a.m. A college prep school, Neighborhood Academy, has issued a temporary lockdown. One hospital close to the active shooter situation has issued a temporary lockdown with the children’s hospital heightening security.
The active shooter is still believed to be in the dwelling where the gunfire has occurred. They are only issuing temporary lockdowns and heightening security as a precaution.
False Reports
There have been some false reports that the suspect is in custody, and this is not the case. Negotiators have been in contact with the suspect, however, there appears to be no resolution at this time. Officials believe they may have to barge into the dwelling and take the suspect into custody.
Officers have shot in several teargas grenades into the household in hope to disarm the suspect. This is still an ongoing situation.
By Sheena Robertson
Sources:
CBS News: Live Updates: ‘Active shooting situation’ in Pittsburgh’s Garfield neighborhood prompts evacuation
CNN: Ongoing shooting situation erupts in Pittsburgh during attempted eviction, officials say
Top and Featured Image Courtesy of Tex Texin‘s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of Via Tsuji‘s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
