One man is dead and a Butler City Police officer is currently in surgery after a stabbing and shooting this morning in downtown Butler.
The 27-year-old officer is in stable, but critical condition, as of 11am this morning, according to the Pennsylvania State Police.
At a press conference this morning, Trooper Josh Black from the State Police Troop D Butler, confirmed that around 6:55 a.m., Butler City Police were called to the area the 300 block of West Jefferson Street for a man who was reportedly jumping in and out of traffic. As soon as the officer encountered the man, a struggle ensued.
The man, identified as 35-year-old John Ebberts, allegedly stabbed the officer multiple times, which lead to the officer discharging his service issued firearm, striking, and fatally wounding the man.
The officer was taken by Stat Medivac to UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh. He has three years on the force with the City of Butler and is a marine veteran.
The State Police Major Case team is currently investigating this incident along with the Butler County DA’s office and the Butler County Coroner’s office. Assisting in the investigation is the Butler County Sheriff’s office, Butler City Bureau of Fire, and Butler Ambulance service.
Troop Black also confirmed there are no public safety concerns and the investigation is ongoing.
(L to R) Butler City Police Chief Bob O’Neill and Pennsylvania State Trooper Josh Black
