Terrified Witnesses Watch, Capture Cell Phone Video Of Route 51 Shootout
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- When one of Pittsburgh's busiest and most congested roads turns into a full-blown crime scene, risk and danger take on whole new meanings.
"Immediately, I knew something was wrong 'cause I saw the helicopters and heard the sirens," said Edna Roach, who lives near the shooting scene.
Drivers were stuck in the gridlock and people were on the street, all of them near or in the line of fire.
"I heard the gunshots, and then I came running around the corner," said Dan Eagleson, a witness. "And then, see that orange truck. He's parked right behind there in that gray car."
Some witnesses took cell phone video. In one, gunfire can be heard and a man is seen running for cover. Another video shows the heavy police presence and the sounds of rapid gunfire.
The corner of Route 51 and Bausman Street is where the chaos and violence came to an end.
"Where the suspect began shooting at the officers, and they were forced to protect themselves and return fire," said Lt. Edward Cunningham, of Pittsburgh Police.
A man in a nearby vehicle was grazed by a bullet from the suspect's weapon, police say.
Dozens of rounds were fired as indicated by the police markers on the road. It was an enormous challenge trying to ensure public safety.
"These crimes are senseless; put the guns down," said Roach. "I'm praying, praying people put these guns down and turn from their wicked ways and save our kids."
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