Man accused of killing St. Clair officer could head to trial

NEW FLORENCE, Pa. — The man accused of fatally shooting a St. Clair Township police officer could be heading to trail in June on charges of killing a police officer.

Ray Shetler’s attorney filed a motion to get his first and third-degree murder charges dropped, but a ruling has not been made.

"In one sense, it might be easy case for both sides to try because we agree on the facts, but more of why did it happen? And what elements can be proven and what elements can't be?" defense attorney Marc Daffner said.

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Officer Lloyd Reed was the first to arrive at the New Florence home in 2015 after Shetler’s girlfriend had called 911 saying he had assaulted her. Westmoreland County authorities say Shetler exited the New Florence house with a rifle and shot Lloyd, who fired at Shetler after he refused to drop the gun.

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Daffner said it comes down to the simple definition of first-degree murder, showing intent and premeditation.

The district attorney said he will absolutely fight the motion and must respond in writing within 30 days.

The judge did grant the defense access to Shetler’s records. The defense hopes to sever the other charges of theft and receiving stolen property.

Cox Media Group