by Aliquippa, PA – A tragic incident unfolded on Thursday evening when 18-year-old high school student Kendric Curtis was fatally shot by an agent from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in Aliquippa. Curtis died early Friday morning at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, according to the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The shooting occurred around 6:20 p.m. on Waugaman Street within the Linmar Terrace housing complex. Authorities confirmed that Curtis was armed when he was confronted by law enforcement officials. Pennsylvania State Police explained that officers initially tried to make contact with Curtis, who then fled and fired shots at the officers before being shot in return.
Details of the Incident and Law Enforcement Response
On Thursday night, a joint investigation involving ATF and FBI agents was acknowledged by Pennsylvania State Police. Though the specific reasons for the agencies’ presence in Aliquippa remain unclear, it is confirmed that Curtis was armed at the time of the incident.
- The shooting took place at the Linmar Terrace housing complex on Waugaman Street.
- Curtis fled from law enforcement and reportedly fired shots at officers.
- An officer returned fire, resulting in Curtis being shot and later dying from his injuries.
- The Pennsylvania State Police are leading the investigation, with the ATF providing necessary support.
“We’re asking for clarity and calmness. We’re asking people to search their inner self, take a deep breath, get all the facts before you snap to judgment and quick to punish,” said Aliquippa Mayor Dwan B. Walker.
Community Impact and Response
The news deeply impacted the Aliquippa community, especially students and families affiliated with Aliquippa High School. Mayor Walker confirmed that Curtis was a student at the school, sparking grief throughout the local community.
In response to the incident, the Aliquippa School District has arranged for a Trauma Support Team at the Junior/Senior High School to support students and staff. The district also pledged to provide ongoing counseling and resources through the day.
Residents described the scene near the shooting location as tense, with multiple police vehicles—at least nine—present and several gunshots heard by witnesses. Neighbor Sandra Pope expressed the community’s frustration: “We’re frustrated because we don’t want this to be a new normal.”
Official Statements from School and Authorities
Aliquippa School District Superintendent Dr. Phillip K. Woods addressed families in a letter emphasizing collective grief and support during this difficult time.
Read Also: Utah Trucker Arrested After Young Half-Sisters Found Trapped in Refrigerated Trailer at 30 Degrees
“As a district, we are grieving together. The loss of a classmate, student, and friend is difficult for everyone, especially our children,” Woods wrote. “I am asking our staff, parents, and community members to rally around our students during this time of sorrow. Please help them as they work through their fears, concerns, and emotions. Encourage them to lean on one another, to seek support when needed, and to continue pressing forward in faith, strength, and unity.”
The Pennsylvania State Police continue their investigation into the incident with assistance from the ATF. The community awaits more detailed information as the case develops. For the latest updates and full background on the incident, more information is available here.
A Call for Compassion amid Tragedy
The shooting has left a lasting impact on Aliquippa, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by communities confronting violence. Leaders urge residents to remain calm and seek understanding as investigations proceed.
- Mayor Walker asks residents to refrain from quick judgments.
- The school district is committed to providing counseling and support services.
- Authorities are focused on transparency and thorough investigation.
What do you think about this tragic incident in Aliquippa? Have you or someone you know been impacted by local law enforcement encounters? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
