More than a decade after a Butler County truck-repair owner was gunned down at his own shop, state police are trying to shake loose new leads with a $5,000 reward.
Robert Charles Gaurrich, 45, was found dead on Jan. 11, 2013, behind Bob’s Truck & Auto Repair Inc. on Evans City Road. Investigators say he was shot inside the business, then appears to have tried to escape through the east main door before collapsing on a gravel pile behind the building, according to WPXI. His killing has remained unsolved ever since, and authorities say they are hoping the reward finally prompts someone to speak up.
Investigators Seeking a Missing Winchester 30-30
A missing rifle still looms large over the case. Police and Crime Stoppers say Gaurrich's Winchester Canadian Centennial 30-30 lever-action rifle has never been found and remains a key piece of evidence. The gun has been described as having an octagonal barrel roughly 26 to 28 inches long, stamped "1867-1967," with a 12-round capacity, iron sights (no scope), and a wooden stock with wood putty on the forearm; one sling ring was broken, and a metal ring on the butt stock was missing, according to CBS Pittsburgh. Detectives say tracking down that rifle could provide crucial answers.
How to Report Tips
Anyone with information is asked to call Pennsylvania State Police in Butler at 724-284-8100 or PSP Tips toll-free at 1-800-472-8477. Tips can also be submitted online through the PSP Tips form. The PSP Tips portal and Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers have been used to publicize cold cases and collect anonymous leads, per the Butler Eagle and the official PSP tip site.
What Investigators Say About the Original Probe
Authorities originally responded after an acquaintance found Gaurrich unresponsive at his shop. An autopsy later ruled the death a homicide from a gunshot wound to the chest, according to Patch. Early reporting from the time also quoted family members suggesting Gaurrich may have been trying to sell the old rifle, a detail that was investigated but has not produced a publicly known suspect, per contemporaneous coverage by WTAE. The case remains open with Pennsylvania State Police Troop D in Butler.
Officials say anyone who provides information that leads to an arrest could be eligible for the $5,000 reward, and anonymous tips are accepted. For the online tip form and additional information, see the Pennsylvania PSP Tips page linked above.
