Police: Killer sought guns in Washington robbery, shooting
Share with others:
The 18-year-old man police said shot and killed a man Tuesday night in Washington city told authorities he entered his home armed and looking for guns.
According to a criminal complaint, Brandon L. Wolowski, 18, of Washington, told Washington police he was attempting Tuesday night to rob the residents of a house in the 900 block of Fayette Street when he shot Matthew O. Mathias, 37, about 7:25 p.m.
Mr. Mathias died from a gunshot wound to the chest, Washington County coroner Tim Warco said tonight in a statement. The manner of death has been ruled a homicide, he said.
Mr. Wolowski has been charged with homicide, attempted homicide, robbery and assault and remains at the Washington County Jail without bail, according to online court records.
Mr. Wolowski also told police he shot Michelle Powell at the West End house, according to a police criminal complaint. She suffered gunshot wounds to the face, chest and arm and was taken to a Pittsburgh hospital. Her condition was not available.
Mr. Wolowski went to the residence Tuesday night "brandishing a firearm and forcibly removing guns" belonging to Mr. Mathias inside a safe, according to the criminal complaint.
He told police he shot both Mr. Mathias and Ms. Powell several times in an attempt to rob them.
As Mr. Mathias attempted to leave through the front door, Mr. Woloswski shot him -- aiming at his torso -- then returned inside and fired several shots at Ms. Powell.
He awaits a preliminary hearing scheduled for next Wednesday, according to court records.
First Published January 8, 2013 10:34 pm
