Irwin Man Accused In Murder For Hire Case
IRWIN (KDKA) -- A man already facing murder charges is now accused in a murder for hire case from behind bars.
Lee Atwood was back in front of a judge Thursday morning. The 54-year-old Irwin man is accused of allegedly trying to hire a fellow inmate to kill the key witness against him.
"We received information that a confidential informant was approached and offered $1,500 from Mr. Atwood to carry out the homicide of a witness in the previous homicide involving Mr. Atwood," said Sgt. Gino Fagnilli, of Pennsylvania State Police.
Atwood was first arrested in August. He's accused in the shooting death of George Williams, a friend who owed him money.
The murder happened outside of a home along Route 31 in South Huntingdon where the two truck drivers were drinking with friends.
"The person in question, the potential victim is a commonwealth witness in the homicide investigation in which Mr. Atwood is charged," said Sgt. Fagnilli.
While at the Westmoreland County Jail, Atwood reportedly discussed his murder case openly.
The man he allegedly solicited to kill the witness against him was set to be released from custody.
"Some of the details involve Mr. Atwood providing the confidential informant with directions to the subject's home, a layout of his home and specific instructions regarding how he wanted him to carry out the crime," said Sgt. Fagnilli.
According to the criminal complaint, Atwood offered to give his fellow inmate $1,500 to carry out the murder, saying he would give him half now and half later.
"He's facing two charges, conspiracy to commit homicide and another misdemeanor charge involving solicitation to commit criminal homicide," Sgt. Fagnilli said.
Atwood remains in jail where he is being held without bond.
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