Former Burgettstown officer accused of murdering daughter's ex turns himself in

BURGETTSTOWN, Pa. — A former Burgettstown police officer accused of murdering his daughter’s ex-boyfriend turned himself in Tuesday morning.

James Bonjourni, 68, is facing homicide charges in the April 27 death of 38-year-old Brian Wilbert. %

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Attorney Bob Delgreco claims that Bonjourni opened fire to protect himself and his daughter, whom Delgreco said was afraid of Wilbert.

Wilbert, who had been arrested in Washington and Allegheny counties, showed up at Bonjourni’s house with a knife on the night of the shooting, according to Delgreco.

“He’s (Bonjourni) presented with a situation where an individual (Wilbert) -- with an extensive criminal history, with a notorious reputation for crimes of violence, with a murder threat and a knife -- presents himself to Mr. Bonjourni, and Mr. Bonjourni shot him one time in the stomach in self-defense,” Delgreco said. %

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According to a criminal complaint, EMS workers who were at the scene overheard Bonjourni making statements such as, “I’m going to jail.”

Even so, Delgreco argues it was justifiable homicide.

“Jim Bonjourni is a pillar of the community. Here's a guy with no prior record, 68 years old, some health problems. Former police officer, former constable,” Delgreco said.

Cox Media Group