Ligonier Township, Pennsylvania (LVPD)— On Sunday, July 2nd, 2023, a disturbing incident took place in a quiet residential area on Gravel Hill Road. The Ligonier Valley Police Department received a distress call reporting a domestic disturbance, where a man was threatening to kill a woman inside the house with a machete. Responding promptly to the situation, two officers were dispatched to the scene to bring the situation under control and ensure the safety of the individuals involved.
Upon their arrival, the officers encountered two victims outside the residence, both unharmed. One of the victims informed the officers that Robbie Saunders, a 59-year-old man, was still inside the house with a machete. Aware of the potential danger, the officers approached the front door, aiming to make contact with Saunders and de-escalate the situation.
As they approached the residence, body camera footage captured Saunders wielding a 14-inch machete, clearly visible in his hand. Ignoring the officers’ verbal commands to drop the weapon, Saunders continued to advance towards them. Faced with an imminent threat to their lives and the lives of others, the officers made the difficult decision to use force to protect themselves and neutralize the threat.
Simultaneously, one officer discharged a stun gun, hoping to incapacitate Saunders and prevent further harm. However, Saunders persisted, undeterred by the electrical shock. In an act of self-defense, the other officer fired a single shot from his police-issued firearm, aiming to immobilize the aggressive individual and bring the situation to a swift end.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, both officers immediately provided aid to Saunders while waiting for medical personnel to arrive. Despite their efforts and the subsequent transportation to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, Saunders tragically succumbed to his injuries.
In the aftermath of this harrowing incident, Westmoreland County District Attorney Nicole W. Ziccarelli initiated a thorough investigation into the officer-involved shooting. An extensive review was conducted, including the analysis of multiple videos captured at the scene, examination of reports, interviews with witnesses, and careful consideration of all available evidence.
After careful examination, District Attorney Ziccarelli concluded that the use of deadly force by the officers was justified. The actions taken by the officers were in response to an imminent threat to their lives and the lives of others present at the scene. Their primary objective was to maintain public safety and protect the community they are sworn to serve and protect.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face daily to ensure the security and well-being of their communities. It emphasizes the critical role body camera footage plays in providing transparency, accountability, and a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding such incidents.
The Ligonier Valley Police Department remains committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and integrity throughout the course of its duties. Following standard protocol, both officers involved in the incident were placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. As the investigation progresses and additional information becomes available, further actions may be taken as necessary to ensure a fair and just resolution.
This incident serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of effective communication and effective resolution of domestic disputes. It underscores the need for communities to promote resources and support for individuals experiencing conflicts in their homes, encouraging peaceful and non-violent solutions. Organizations and initiatives dedicated to providing counseling, mediation, and conflict resolution services can play a significant role in preventing such heartbreaking incidents from occurring in the future.
As the community comes to terms with this unsettling event, it is crucial to remember the officers involved, who selflessly put themselves in harm’s way to protect others. Their actions exemplify the dedication and bravery displayed by law enforcement officers across the country, who uphold the values of justice, safety, and peace. The Ligonier Valley Police Department and its officers remain committed to serving their community with the utmost professionalism and compassion, ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents.
