Homestead Mayor Looking To Stop Recent Surge In Violence
HOMESTEAD (KDKA) -- The mayor of Homestead says she plans on doing whatever is necessary to keep a recent surge of violence that has left four people injured over the last week from continuing in her town.
It has been very busy week for Mayor Betty Esper and her police department.
In the five days, four people have been shot. The latest, a man wounded in the leg during an overnight shooting. He was last listed in critical condition.
"It's a gang-related situation from what I understand," said Mayor Esper.
Violence is one thing, but Mayor Esper says what police officers and other investigating officials are dealing with when it comes to lack of information is frustrating.
"Everybody wears blinders," said Mayor Esper. "People are afraid to say who it might be because there will be retaliation. We know that. I had a girl tell me, 'I ain't gonna say nothing; they ain't gonna come to my house.'"
There is so much at risk for Homestead. On one side of the tracks is a vibrant retail and restaurant area; and on the other side, there are problems but incredible potential.
"We have a potential Bottom Dollar coming into town. I have a potential Food Mart coming into the old Shop 'N Save," said Mayor Esper. "I have a developer looking to develop in this town. I don't need a bad reputation."
Mayor Esper says she plans on preventing that; and if outside help is necessary, so be it.
"If I have to shut the town down to keep people safe, yeah, for a period of time, to let these kids know," she added. "I will be talking to the county. I will be talking to the [District Attorney]."
Regarding the shootings that have happened over the last five days, the police say they are still looking for suspects.
If you know anything about either incident, you are asked to call the Homestead Police.
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