Police: Republic shooting suspect, victim were ‘good friends’
The victim and suspect in a fatal Republic fire station shooting were “good friends,” according to state police.
George Anthony Matis Jr., 21, of Republic is charged with criminal homicide in the death of Parker Hess, 16 Sunday.
Hess, a junior firefighter with the Republic Volunteer Fire Co. was inside the fire station’s business office with Matis while the department was preparing for the town’s Light Up Night Sunday, which was subsequently canceled..
According to state police, Matis removed a 9mm Glock pistol from a holster and “caused the pistol to discharge a bullet in the direction of Hess” at about 4 p.m.
State Police Trooper Adam Janosko said police are examining whether the shooting may have been accidental. He said police interviewed witnesses, family and friends and examined physical evidence, but could not interview Matis because he invoked his right to an attorney.
“Most people believe there wasn’t any tension or anything between them,” he said.
Janosko said it appears Matis owned the gun and had a valid concealed carry permit.
“It’s just unfortunate, and we’ll see how it pans out,” he said.
Police said a single bullet hit Hess in the left cheek, causing uncontrolled bleeding. Emergency personnel treated Hess, who later died on the scene.
Redstone Township police Officer John Brant arrived on the scene to find Hess unconscious and unresponsive, according to court documents.
Matis was arraigned Sunday night before Magisterial District Judge Ronald Haggerty Jr. and lodged in Fayette County Prison without bond.
He is charged with criminal homicide and recklessly endangering another person.
His preliminary hearing is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Dec. 7 before Magisterial District Judge Mike Defino Jr.