Cops seek answers in shooting outside UPMC McKeesport

A man who police say was shot outside a McKeesport hospital by the driver of a car he was trying to get into remained hospitalized Wednesday in critical condition.

Allegheny County Police continue to investigate why the victim was trying to get into a stranger’s car early Tuesday morning. Jim Madalinsky, a department spokesperson, said it was too early to rule out a carjacking attempt.

The driver was waiting to pick someone up around 3:15 a.m. from the emergency room of UPMC McKeesport on Fifth Avenue when a man he didn’t know tried to open the passenger door, Madalinsky said.

At one point, according to Madalinsky, the man kicked the door to get it open.

The driver, whom police did not name, then pulled out a gun and shot the man multiple times, police said.

Authorities did not identify the victim or reveal the extent or nature of his injuries.

A UPMC police officer also fired multiple shots outside the hospital during the incident, Madalinsky said. Investigators do not believe the officer struck anyone, he added.

It is unclear where the officer was standing or stationed at the time of the shooting.

Madalinsky declined further comment about the UPMC officer, referring questions to hospital officials.

UPMC on Wednesday released a statement about the confrontation between the driver and the victim. It said UPMC police responded to an incident between two people outside the emergency room and helped contain the incident to the parking lot.

The statement made no mention of the officer firing a gun.

Everyone involved in the shooting is accounted for and there is no danger to the public, Madalinsky said.

The driver, who stayed on the scene and is cooperating with police, owned his gun and was carrying it legally, Madalinsky said.

Anyone with information is asked to call 833-255-8477. Callers can remain anonymous.