On August 14, 2023, 51-year-old Jason T. Altman was found deceased at his residence on Old Chewton Road in Shenango Township, Pennsylvania. A family member discovered his body and alerted authorities. Upon arrival, law enforcement officials noted evidence of foul play at the scene.
The Lawrence County Coroner's report later confirmed that Altman had died from multiple gunshot wounds to the trunk of his body.
In the course of their investigation, Pennsylvania State Police arrested 20-year-old Elijah Obriant Hirth of New Castle, Pennsylvania, on August 23, 2023. Hirth was charged with criminal homicide in connection with Altman's death and was subsequently booked into the Lawrence County Jail.
Jason Altman was remembered as an endearing individual with a witty personality. He was a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan and cherished the time spent with his son, Kai. Altman graduated from Shenango High School in 1990 and pursued a career in nursing, earning his LPN from Beaver County Community College and his RN from St. Francis School of Nursing. He was employed at R.W.E. Holding Company at the time of his passing.
The arrest of Hirth provided some measure of closure to Altman's family and the local community. The case underscored the persistent concerns about gun violence in the region, prompting discussions among residents and local authorities about measures to enhance public safety and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
