Shortly after 1:10 a.m. on November 1, 2023, gunfire was reported in the 300 block of East 12th Avenue in Homestead, Pennsylvania. Officers found two men with gunshot wounds outside a residence; 38-year-old Eric Stephens of McKees Rocks was pronounced dead at the scene and a second victim was taken to a hospital in critical condition.

Investigators identified 36-year-old Homestead resident Jonque Pettiford as the primary suspect, saying he shot both men multiple times after an altercation outside the residence. Pettiford has been charged with homicide, attempted homicide, and aggravated assault and is described as about 5 feet 7 inches, 180 pounds, and potentially armed and dangerous. As of December 8, 2023, he remained at large and authorities asked the public not to approach him.

The shooting occurred near Barrett Elementary School and has shaken a neighborhood residents consider quiet; local violence prevention groups have stepped in to offer resources. If anyone has information on Pettiford’s whereabouts, contact the Allegheny County Police Tip Line at 1-833-ALL-TIPS; callers can remain anonymous. Anyone with information is asked to come forward.