Police: Argument Outside Whitaker Store Leads To Stabbing
WHITAKER (KDKA) -- Police say a stabbing occurred Monday stemming from an argument on Whitaker Street.
Duane Burgwin has been charged with attempted criminal homicide and aggravated assault.
Allegheny County Police were dispatched Monday at approximately 11 a.m. at the request of the Whitaker Police Department.
The incident occurred in the 100 block Whitaker Street at Lizzie's Dairy.
According to the criminal complaint, Burgwin was a passenger in a truck when it pulled in front of a store.
Walking out of the store at that time were Ahmed Alsuwidan and his handyman, identified as Joe.
Police say Joe began arguing with Burgwin.
When Alsuwidan came to the defense of Joe, police say Burgwin got out of the truck yelling.
Burgwin then allegedly swung at Mr. Alsuwidan in a slashing motion, resulting in Alsuwidan receiving a deep incision that extended from his left ear to the middle of his neck.
A witness said he saw Burgwin put a utility knife in the breast pocket of his work jacket, police said.
Medical professionals say the victim is lucky to be alive. If the gash had been a fraction of an inch more, he may have died.
"Just wild," customer Jose Mani says. "I hope he recovers really fast."
"He's a lot of fun," Ed Vamos says. "He's a great guy."
Whitaker officials did not offer any comment. A representative says the situation is expected to be discussed at their council agenda meeting Tuesday night.