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Police search for suspect in Rostraver convenience store shooting

By Alyssa Choiniere achoiniere@heraldstandard.Com 2 min read
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ROSTRAVER TWP. — Police are searching for a man who allegedly opened fire in a Rostraver Township convenience store, shooting a manager early Thursday.

Rostraver Township police say the incident occurred Thursday just before 4 a.m. at the CoGo’s on Route 51.

They are investigating the case as an attempted homicide.

The manager, Philip Evans, 47, of Washington told police the suspect did not demand money, but simply walked inside and opened fire, according to Rostraver Township Police Chief Greg Resetar.

“There were no words exchanged. According to the victim, he just walked in and started shooting,” Resetar said.

Evans was struck in the hand and shoulder, according to police. He was conscious and alert on the scene.

He was treated on the scene by Rostraver/West Newton EMS and later flown to Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh. He was in stable condition at 2 p.m. Thursday, according to Resetar.

Police described the suspect as a white or light-skinned black man who is short with a thin build. Police said he was wearing dark shorts that fell passed the knee, a lighter, heavy top, white, calf-length socks, gloves, a head covering that did not appear to be a hoodie or a hat and possibly sunglasses. The lower part of his face was covered, possibly by a bandana.

He fled on foot, running out the back door police said. No vehicles were seen in the area. Police K-9’s are being used to track the man, who remained at large.

Evans has been employed at the convenience store since June.

The store was reopened Wednesday morning while police continued their investigation.

Patrons said they were shocked to hear the news of the shooting, many adding that they frequent the store.

“It’s getting worse and worse,” said Matt Piper of Fayette City.

He said his girlfriend works at the store, and he fears for her safety.

Tomorrow she is working a later shift, and he said he plans to stay in the area to make sure she is OK.

“It’s pretty crazy stuff,” he said.

Employees and managers at CoGo’s and the neighboring Dunkin Donuts declined comment.

Rostraver Township police were assisted at the scene by state police and Monessen, North Belle Vernon, West Newton, Elizabeth Township, Elizabeth Borough, Donora and Forward Township police departments and the Westmoreland County Forensics Bureau.

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