Keith R. Haskins, 55, of Russell, Pennsylvania, died on Memorial Day, May 27, 2024, after a confrontation inside an automotive repair shop at 2 South Main Street. Remembered as a self-employed contractor and jack of all trades, he enjoyed working on cars, air-brush painting, riding Harley motorcycles, gardening, operating heavy equipment, driving RC cars, and spending time with family. He is survived by children, grandchildren, siblings, his mother, and a longtime companion.

Pennsylvania State Police say the shooting occurred shortly before 9:30 p.m. after a brief altercation with 62-year-old Mark E. Saullo at Saullo’s shop. Saullo told investigators the men had argued two days earlier and that on May 27 Keith demanded a vehicle title, pushed him, and struck him with the back of his hand. Saullo said he retrieved a Smith & Wesson .40-caliber semi-automatic and fired one round; Keith was struck in the stomach and died at the scene. A witness reported seeing Saullo holding a pistol and Keith holding his stomach; that witness called 911. Saullo was taken into custody and charged with criminal homicide.

Questions remain about the events that led to the shooting and the separate account of the earlier May 25 confrontation; anyone who was at or near the shop that night or who knew Keith’s and Saullo’s relationship is asked to come forward with information.