June 07--Three people have been charged after police said one of them fired a semiautomatic rifle at a McKeesport police officer investigating a theft early this morning.
McKeesport police officers went 3:40 a.m. to a service garage on Bowman Avenue for reports that two people had been trying to steal wheels from a parked car. An officer standing near the garage was fired upon from Highland Avenue, which runs parallel, Allegheny County police Lt. Andrew Schurman said.
A police dog helped officers find three people hiding in a car nearby. Officers noticed evidence of the theft inside their vehicle, the lieutenant said. They also recovered the AK-47-style semiautomatic rifle they believe was used to fire at the officer, who was unharmed, Lt. Schurman said.
Detectives questioned the trio this afternoon at their headquarters in Point Breeze.
They charged Dana Hall, 18, of Homewood, with two counts each of aggravated assault, attempted homicide, reckless endangerment, trespass, receiving stolen property and conspiracy. Police believe he was the one who fired the gun.
Also charged with theft, receiving stolen property, trespass and conspiracy were Andre Whitley, 19, of Homewood, and Deasia Burgess, 19, of East Liberty.
All were to be held in the Allegheny County Jail this evening.
Sadie Gurman: [email protected] or 412-263-1878.
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