PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A violent confrontation at a Sunoco gas station early Saturday morning has left one man dead, another injured, and a store employee facing serious charges.
According to WPXI, Pittsburgh police responded to reports of a shooting around 3:38 a.m. at the gas station located in the 5000 block of Butler Street. Investigators say a dispute began inside the store and escalated into the parking lot, where multiple shell casings were later recovered.
Shortly after the incident, two men arrived at a nearby hospital suffering from gunshot wounds. One of the men, identified as Devon Smith, died from injuries to his chest and back. The second victim, who has not been publicly identified, sustained a gunshot wound to the leg and is reported to be in stable condition.
Police arrested Randell Antonio Tate, 22, of Pittsburgh, in connection with the shooting. Tate, an employee at the store that night, is now facing charges of criminal homicide and aggravated assault.
Surveillance footage reviewed by authorities shows Tate engaging in a conversation with both men inside the store before tensions rose. The confrontation moved into the cashier’s area behind a bulletproof glass door, where Tate allegedly drew a firearm and opened fire on the two men. He then pursued them inside the store.
The surviving victim told police that he and Smith had gone to the store seeking an apology from Tate over a disagreement from more than a year ago. Tate later told investigators he believed the men were about to draw a weapon on him, prompting him to shoot in what he claimed was self-defense. He subsequently called 911. Police confirmed that Tate was in legal possession of the firearm used in the shooting.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue gathering evidence and witness statements. The tragic death of Devon Smith adds to the growing concern over escalating disputes turning deadly in the city.
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