Police: Suspect Says Shooting In Wendy's Was 'Self-Defense'
Follow KDKA-TV: Facebook | Twitter
EDGEWOOD BOROUGH (KDKA) -- Police have identified the suspect wanted in the shooting inside the Wendy's in Edgewood Towne Centre that sent a man to the hospital in critical condition.
In the criminal complaint, the suspect told police he shot the victim inside the fast food restaurant in self-defense and says video surveillance from the restaurant will prove that.
Police say they've been communicating with Ronald Burton, the man accused of shooting 27-year-old Andre Johnson Jr. inside the Wendy's on Monday night.
However, Burton hasn't turned himself in.
KDKA's Julie Grant Reports:
Burton allegedly told police over the phone: "Look, I was defending myself. Watch the video. I'll just tell you what happened."
In the video, police say they can see Burton, who was working in the restaurant, walk towards a table. They say Johnson walked up behind him.
Police said the video shows both men reach toward their waistbands, and that's when Burton allegedly pulled out a gun and shot Johnson.
Burton told police Johnson had a gun and was going to shoot him, so he shot Johnson in the stomach and took off.
He said he threw the gun into a wooded area near the Triangle Sub Shop in Swissvale. He said he tossed some clothing there as well. Detectives checked the area but didn't find anything.
KDKA's Meghan Schiller Reports:
The victim remains at UPMC Mercy Hospital in critical condition.
Burton faces multiple charges including persons not to possess a firearm, carrying a firearm without a license and tampering with evidence.
If you have any information on his whereabouts, you're being asked to call Allegheny County Police.
