A deadly shootout erupted outside a Speedway gas station in Clairton, Pennsylvania, a suburb located about 15 miles southwest of Pittsburgh, in the early hours of Sunday, September 1, 2024.
The gun battle occurred at approximately 4 a.m., resulting in the death of one individual and leaving two others wounded. The shocking incident, which shattered the typically peaceful morning atmosphere, has left the community grappling with the senseless violence that unfolded on their streets.
Police have confirmed that one man was killed, and two others were injured in the incident, which began as a “large disturbance” with people fighting in the street, before escalating into a deadly shooting.
Resident Carolyn Williams was preparing for bed around 3 a.m., having just turned off her television, when she was suddenly startled by a rapid series of loud booms. She leaped out of bed in a state of fear.
The Clairton Police Department responded to the disturbance around 4 a.m. As they approached the area, they heard multiple shots being fired. One man was fatally shot while attempting to flee the scene. His vehicle flipped over and struck a utility pole near the gas station. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The Allegheny County Medical Examiner identified the victim as Derrick Davis, 28, of McKeesport.
The vehicle was removed from the scene, leaving behind a damaged utility pole supported by cables. Some residents reported power outages in the area. A section of State Street was inaccessible for several hours early Sunday. Utility workers from Duquesne Light were on site to install a new pole to replace the broken one.
The two injured individuals were taken to local hospitals, where they are currently listed in stable condition. Their identities have not been released, but authorities confirmed that they were part of the initial altercation that led to the shooting.
Homicide detectives are investigating the incident. It was not clear what sparked the dispute that led to gunfire. Police detained one suspect for questioning but have not announced any arrests or charges.
Local law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward as they continue to piece together what happened.