Bar owners decide to close following double shooting

The incident occurred Thursday at the Beer Barrel in McKeesport.

The owners of a Mc-Keesport bar decided to close their business after a double shooting occurred there Thursday night.

Our news partners at WTAE reported that a note announcing the shutdown was posted on the door of the Beer Barrel, which is located in the 500 block of Fifth Avenue.

“It is important to note that this closure was not forced upon us; rather, it was a voluntary decision made after careful consideration,” the note read. “We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all our loyal customers for their continued support and the memorable time we have shared over the years.”

A man and a woman are hospitalized after being shot around 9:36 p.m., according to Allegheny County Police, whose Homicide Unit responded to a request for assistance.

County police said the man was in critical condition Friday afternoon. The woman was also in critical condition, but is considered stable.

WTAE reached out to District Attorney Stephen Zappala’s office to see if the Beer Barrel might be classified as a nuisance bar. His office said they couldn’t comment on whether the property is being investigated.

McKeesport Police Chief Josh Alfer said the department cannot release any more information at this time because county detectives are initiating the investigation.

County police said the investigation is ongoing and they had no further updates as of press time Friday, including whether a suspect had been apprehended.

Anyone with information concerning this incident is asked to call the County Police Tip Line 1-833-ALLTIPS (1-833-255-8477). Callers can remain anonymous.