DERRY TOWNSHIP, PA — A 51-year-old man was arrested in Derry Township after he allegedly fired a shotgun through a shared wall, nearly striking his neighbor and prompting a standoff with state police, authorities said.
Randy Bleehash faces multiple charges including attempted aggravated assault and recklessly endangering another person after Pennsylvania State Police say he discharged a shotgun inside his residence on Adam Lane. The blast sent drywall and debris flying into the adjacent home, where a woman narrowly avoided being hit.
Key Points
- Randy Bleehash, 51, allegedly fired a shotgun through a neighbor’s wall in Derry Township.
- The woman was not injured but reported falling debris and a close call.
- Bleehash barricaded himself for nearly an hour before police arrested him.
Neighbor escapes harm, police say charges include assault and endangerment
The neighbor, who was inside her home at the time of the incident, told troopers that the blast caused a section of drywall to collapse, scattering debris and sending her scrambling to safety. She was not physically harmed.
Troopers arrived on the scene and attempted to make contact with Bleehash, who reportedly refused to exit his home. The standoff lasted nearly an hour before officers entered the residence and took him into custody without further incident.
Bleehash was charged with attempted aggravated assault, simple assault, resisting arrest, and recklessly endangering another person. No injuries were reported.
Police forced to enter home after hour-long standoff
Authorities have not stated what led to the shooting or whether the incident was accidental or intentional. No firearm discharge injuries were sustained, but law enforcement emphasized the seriousness of the near miss.
The shotgun was recovered at the scene. Police have not indicated if alcohol or other substances were involved.
The investigation remains ongoing, and Bleehash is currently being held pending a court appearance.
Motive unclear as investigation continues
Officials have not released further details about the relationship between Bleehash and his neighbor. It is unclear if any prior incidents or disputes led up to the shooting.
Court documents list a series of felony and misdemeanor charges, and Bleehash is expected to be arraigned in Westmoreland County.
A close call with a shotgun shell led to falling drywall, a standoff, and the arrest of a Derry Township man.
