A high school football game in McKeesport, Pennsylvania was abruptly halted Friday evening when a gunshot was heard just before 11 p.m., and authorities swiftly apprehended a 17-year-old suspect.
Liberty Borough police expect to file multiple charges against the suspect, including receiving stolen property, possession of a firearm by a minor, possession of a weapon on school property, reckless endangerment, and carrying a firearm without a license, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune Review.
Officials reported that the firearm had been stolen.
The incident occurred during the late stages of the fourth quarter of the game between South Allegheny and Elizabeth Forward high schools.
Authorities identified the suspect as a student at Brashear High School in Pittsburgh, according to police.
While no injuries were reported, authorities recovered a loaded semi-automatic handgun from the suspect’s waistband, the Tribune Review reported.
The suspect was transported in custody to a juvenile detention center.
WTAE, an ABC affiliate, reported that authorities recovered a .45-caliber round from the ceiling area near the stadium entrance.
“This was an extremely serious incident,” said Liberty Borough Police Chief Ralph Marsico. “A firearm was discharged during a well-attended school sporting event where numerous students, children, parents, school personnel, and community members were present. The potential for a far more tragic outcome cannot be overstated.”
The gunshot triggered chaos inside the stadium as spectators fled and sought cover, as captured on video.
“There was a loud shot, and I knew immediately what it was,” Jess Levo-Sten, the camera operator for TribLive’s High School Sports Network livestream, told the outlet. “Everyone paused and looked at each other, and then everyone started running.”
“We are grateful for the quick response of our South Allegheny School Police officers and the assistance of our local law enforcement partners,” said South Allegheny Superintendent Dr. David McDonald. “The safety of our students, athletes, families, staff, and community remains our highest priority.”
