Michael Shane Henrick, a 39-year-old man from Masontown, PA, tragically died on January 15, 2018. Henrick was shot by Christopher C. Shellhammer, 30, of McClellandtown, after an altercation at a home on Peach Street in Masontown. Henrick's girlfriend, Kelly French, had asked Shellhammer to come over that night to sell her marijuana. Henrick arrived unexpectedly and found Shellhammer and French smoking a blunt at the kitchen table. Henrick confronted Shellhammer, and a physical altercation ensued. Shellhammer then allegedly shot Henrick once in the chest and once in the back. Henrick died at the scene, and Shellhammer called 911, claiming he shot someone and was driving to the Masontown police station.
Shellhammer was arrested and charged with homicide. During the preliminary hearing, Shellhammer's attorney claimed self-defense, arguing that Shellhammer was attacked by Henrick and French. However, the judge denied bail for Shellhammer, and the case proceeded to trial. The prosecution argued that Shellhammer intentionally killed Henrick, while the defense maintained that Shellhammer acted in self-defense. The trial included testimony from French, who described the events leading up to the shooting, and evidence such as a loaded 9-mm handgun found in Shellhammer's van.
The case drew significant attention in the local community, with Shellhammer's father questioning officials about his son's treatment at a Fayette County Prison board meeting. Despite the defense's claims, Shellhammer was held for court on homicide charges. The trial continued with further testimonies and legal proceedings, but the outcome of the case was not immediately available at the time of the last update.
This tragic incident highlights the complexities and emotional toll of violent altercations and the legal battles that follow. The loss of Michael Shane Henrick left a lasting impact on his loved ones and the community of Masontown, PA.
