Police: Man was about to enter New Year’s Eve party when hit at close range
By Kathleen Brady Shea, Managing Editor, The Times
Coatesville police are probing two shootings, believed to be unrelated, that occurred this past week.
A West Chester man in his mid-30s was on his way to a New Year’s Eve party when he was shot at close range in the 600 block of Belmont Avenue in Coatesville about 7 p.m. on Dec. 31, police said.
Coatesville Police Sgt. Brandon Harris said one bullet struck the victim above his left eye, wrapped around his forehead, exited his head and entered his shoulder. Another struck him in the hip, Harris said.
“He is very lucky to be alive,” Harris said, adding that the man, who is not being identified for his safety, was released from the hospital the following day.
Harris said investigators found no sign of robbery and believe the victim was targeted. He said police have no suspects yet.
Police are also probing a shooting – believed to be unrelated – that occurred a couple of days later, Harris said. About 8 p.m. on Jan. 2, three West Chester males were shot at but not hit in the 300 block of Chestnut Street by an unknown assailant, Harris said. He said investigators found evidence of the shootings at the scene.
Police do not believe the two incidents are connected, and investigations are continuing into both. Anyone with information is asked to call Harris at 610-384-2300.
