Patrick J. Kanonczyk Cause Of Death: A Fatal Police Shooting in Millcreek Township Under Investigation
A fatal police shooting in Millcreek Township is under investigation after officers responded to reports of a violent disturbance at an apartment complex near the Millcreek Mall on the evening of May 11. Authorities say numerous 911 calls were made reporting a man smashing car windows with a hammer and allegedly attempting to assault his girlfriend with the weapon. The man, later identified as 36-year-old Patrick J. Kanonczyk, was pronounced dead at the scene at 8:24 p.m. by the Erie County Coroner’s Office .
Investigation Underway
Millcreek Township police arrived at The Reserve at Millcreek apartments, located on Treetop Drive off Kuntz Road, around 7:18 p.m. Upon arrival, officers encountered a man who matched the suspect’s description. According to the Pennsylvania State Police, a brief encounter followed, during which Millcreek officers fired their weapons, striking Kanonczyk. Details about the interaction that led to the shooting remain unclear .
Autopsy and Investigation
An autopsy was scheduled for May 12 at 12:30 p.m., and the findings may provide further insight into the cause of death and circumstances of the shooting. The officers involved in the incident have not been publicly identified and will be placed on administrative duty during the investigation .
Community Impact
The incident marks the latest in a series of officer-involved shootings in the Erie region. The most recent fatal police shooting prior to this case occurred on March 22, 2024, in Warren County. The investigation is expected to involve a thorough review of body camera footage, 911 call logs, witness statements, and forensic evidence .
Conclusion
Millcreek Township and surrounding communities are awaiting the results of the state police investigation to learn more about what happened during the fatal encounter.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward and assist investigators in piecing together the events that unfolded on the evening of May 11. This remains a developing story, and updates are expected as more information becomes available through the investigation .
