On June 2, 2024, at approximately 3 a.m., a tragic shooting occurred at Ballers Hookah Lounge and Cigar Bar, located on Laketon Road in Penn Hills, Pennsylvania. The incident resulted in the deaths of 44-year-old Nathaniel Smiley Jr. of Pittsburgh and 28-year-old Stephanie Stuart of McKeesport. Seven other individuals sustained injuries; five were treated and released from local hospitals, while two remained hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
Investigations by the Allegheny County Police Department revealed that an altercation inside the bar escalated, leading to multiple individuals discharging firearms. Notably, the establishment was operating without a liquor license at the time of the incident.
On July 1, 2024, authorities charged 42-year-old Chaz Jackson, an armed security guard employed at the lounge, in connection with the shooting. Through witness interviews and evidence collection, detectives determined that Jackson was responsible for the death of Stephanie Stuart and for injuring at least one of the surviving victims. He faces charges including homicide, aggravated assault, and recklessly endangering another person.
The investigation remains active, with police continuing to seek information regarding other individuals involved in the shooting. Authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to contact the County Police Tip Line at 1-833-ALL-TIPS.
