Brackenridge, PA, Police Chief Justin McIntire was shot and killed Monday during a foot pursuit of a probation violator. (Photo: Allegheny County)
Justin McIntire, the chief of the Brackenridge (PA) Police Department who was slain Monday during a multi-jurisdictional foot pursuit, is being remembered by family and friends as a beloved member of his community.
“I mean, you want to cry and everything else because you know him so long, and in my case, just like one of my sons or kids or family dying,” former Brackenridge Mayor Tom Kish told WTAE.
McIntire, 46, had served as chief of the small Allegheny County town for four years. Erie News Now reports he was running after the suspect when he was shot in the head.
The suspect was later killed in an exchange of gunfire with Pittsburgh officers.
"Police Chief Justin McIntire ran towards danger to keep Pennsylvanians safe -- and he made the ultimate sacrifice in service to community," Pennsylvania Attorney General and Governor-elect Josh Shapiro said in a tweet.
Today's tragedy in Brackenridge is a devastating reminder of the bravery of those who put their lives on the line every day to protect us.
— Josh Shapiro (@JoshShapiroPA) January 3, 2023
Police Chief Justin McIntire ran towards danger to keep Pennsylvanians safe — and he made the ultimate sacrifice in service to community.
“He knew everybody, and he was friendly with everybody. He was a family cop, I call him. He was great. I never in twelve years had anyone say anything bad about him. Never,” Kish told WTAE.
Tuesday people in Brackenridge lined the streets and paid their respects to the chief as his body was escorted by first responders to the funeral home.
“I’m am literally broken,” Ashley McIntire wrote on Facebook. “I just want someone to tell me this nightmare is over.
“My Best Friend My Person My entire world gone in a blink of an eye. I’m not sure how I can do this so called life without you. I can’t even put into words how great of a person my husband was. He was my person. I love you with all my heart. Until we meet again.”
Kish, who served as mayor of Brackenridge for 12 years said, "He was a hell of a family man," he said. "He loved his kids, his wife. Loved her dearly, spoke of them often. He loved going hunting and fishing with his boys. His daughter, he did a lot with."
McIntire also coached youth football for the Highland Hornets.
