A violent altercation at a Westmoreland County Elks Lodge in New Kensington has ended in tragedy, with officials now confirming the fatal shooting of a bouncer and the issuing of homicide charges against his brother. According to a report from WPXI, the incident took place early Saturday morning when a dispute inside the establishment reportedly spilled out into the parking lot, leading to the death of 46-year-old Jeffrey Ballard, a bouncer at the lodge.
Following the shooting, which occurred around 3 a.m., the New Kensington Police along with the Westmoreland County DA's Office took swift action, reviewing surveillance footage and conducting witness interviews that identified the victim's brother, 38-year-old Steffon Ballard, as the assailant, he who is now charged with criminal homicide, attempted homicide, aggravated assault, and illegal possession of a firearm, the charges including homicide for the death of his brother whom witnesses described as being involved in a physical confrontation with another individual moments before the fatal gunshot was fired, these details compiled from a release covered by WTAE.
Jeffrey Ballard was reportedly struck by a bullet in the leg during this violent exchange, where several good Samaritans attempted to provide aid before emergency services arrived; despite their efforts, Ballard succumbed to an excessive loss of blood, according to the release obtained by WTAE. The New Kensington Police have since made an urgent appeal to the public for any information regarding Steffon Ballard's whereabouts, urging anyone with details to call 911.
