A police pursuit stemming from an officer-involved shooting in Pennsylvania State Police Troop H’s jurisdiction led to road closures, a Walmart evacuation, and a large law enforcement presence in St. Clair on Sunday afternoon.
At approximately 1:45 p.m., the St. Clair Fire Police were requested to close off entry to the Coal Creek Plaza, in St. Clair, as well as northbound Route 61. By 2:10 p.m., authorities had completely shut down Route 61 at Hancock Street as the situation continued to unfold.
Shortly thereafter, Walmart was evacuated as multiple Pennsylvania State Police units, along with helicopters, were deployed throughout the area. The heavy law enforcement presence extended along Route 61 from the Gasway gas station to the Coal Creek Plaza as officers worked to contain the situation.
Late Sunday, Pennsylvania State Police Troop L Public Information Officer, Trooper Ethan Brownback, provided details on the ongoing investigation, stating:
“The Pennsylvania State Police is investigating an officer-involved shooting that originated in Troop H’s area, which covers Perry, Cumberland, Dauphin, Adams, and Franklin Counties, and continued into Troop L’s jurisdiction. A pursuit led to Schuylkill County, where four individuals were involved. Two are currently in custody, while two others, identified as male juveniles, remain at large. A perimeter has been established, and the investigation remains active. More information will be released as it becomes available.”
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and avoid the area as authorities continue their search. Law enforcement has not yet provided descriptions of the suspects still at large.
As of 6:00pm, Sunday, the Coal Creak Plaza remains closed.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.