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Lawyer: Man accused of threatening to shoot up Pittsburgh-area mall suffered mental health crisis

PITTSBURGH — The lawyer for the man accused of threatening to shoot up South Hills Village Mall said his client was suffering a mental health crisis, and was trying to warn of a shooting, not threaten one.

Only Channel 11 News was there as 51-year-old Lance Crowley faced a magistrate judge Thursday. Crowley is charged with making terroristic threats and public drunkenness.

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On Oct. 12, police from departments across the South Hills rushed to South Hills Village Mall after a Macy’s employee reported that Crawley had walked up to him carrying a large duffel bag, and said there was going to be a mass shooting. The incident prompted a mall lockdown.

“He believed he was assisting people and warning people of something that was going to happen. He believed that sincerely at that time. His intention was not to alarm, hurt or scare anyone,” defense attorney David Shrager told Channel 11 News.

The judge granted the continuance, but not before giving restrictions and a stern warning. Crowley is not to have any drugs or alcohol or step on mall property.

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“Your client caused quite a disturbance. It is not acceptable or tolerated. A lot of resources were used that day. We hope he gets the help he needs, but if there are any issues or contact with law enforcement, the consequences will be very significant. He will not get out of jail,” said Magistrate Ron Arnoni.

After the hearing, Shrager said, “We have to balance the needs of the community with the needs of the individual. I’m certain based on what’s happening in the world right now, people are afraid. But we also have to be understanding that right now we have a mental health crisis throughout this country, and people aren’t getting access to the right resources.”