Pennsylvania teen in critical condition after being shot, cops believe multiple shooters involved

Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.

SWISSVALE, PENNSYLVANIA: Allegheny County Police suspect the involvement of multiple shooters in the shooting of a 14-year-old on Sunday evening, February 4.

Dispatchers from Allegheny County reported that police responded to a call at the intersection of Woodstock Avenue and Roslyn Street around 6.05 pm on Sunday.

Upon arrival, they discovered a 14-year-old male victim suffering from gunshot wounds, who was subsequently rushed to a hospital in a critical condition, as per WPXI.

In the aftermath of this tragic incident, neighbors voiced concerns about the safety of their children, while the Director of Violence Prevention for the Greater Valley Coalition offered insights into strategies to prevent future shootings.

What did residents say amid teen's shooting?

Residents along Woodstock Avenue in Swissvale recounted hearing sirens, witnessing the presence of homicide detectives, and observing numerous evidence markers scattered across their street on Sunday evening. 

A resident, Ross Smith, described the scene as chaotic, stating, "It was like mayhem. To learn it was a 14-year-old kid, that’s very unfortunate because I have a son who is 15. I couldn’t imagine something like that.  With this new generation, you want your kids in the house because they might get killed just hanging outside."

Those familiar with the teenager mentioned that he was returning from a local convenience store when he encountered someone he knew. Allegedly, four individuals trailed him down Woodstock Avenue before the shooting occurred.

Stress on conflict resolution, anger management

Lee Davis is the Director of Violence Prevention for the Greater Valley Coalition against Violence. He’s also a violence interrupter at Woodland Hills High School.

 On Monday, Lee Davis resumed his conversations with students at the lunch table, while Woodland Hills Middle and High School saw an increase in security measures.

Davis emphasized the importance of addressing conflict resolution, anger management, and decision-making skills, as well as normalizing the act of seeking therapy. 

He stated, “It’s ok to ask for therapy - put your hand up.” 

Davis's primary focus now shifts toward preventing any potential retaliatory actions. He questioned, “How do we prevent the next shooting from happening?”. 

He also emphasized collaboration with the school district to ensure resources are readily available for affected students and families.

Davis credited Superintendent Dr Castagna's support by highlighting the success of the violence prevention program at Woodland Hills High School.

He noted that over the past four months, there have been no instances of gun violence affecting students in the district. “We’ve had four months of no shootings, no gunplay, no homicides, but we’re back to the drawing board again."

Davis remarked, underscoring the positive impact of building strong relationships with students, which has coincided with improved academic performance.

Encouraging teenagers to communicate any potential retaliatory plans or violence to a trusted adult, Davis urged vigilance within the community.

For those with information regarding the shooting incident on Woodstock Avenue in Swissvale on Sunday night, the Allegheny County Police Tip line is available at: 1-833-ALL-TIPS.