The shocking incident in Lower Mahanoy Township unfolded in the early evening hours on Sunday.
As details became apparent to authorities, they determined that the presence of a firearm and the courage of a young person saved at least one life — and likely more.
Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) believe an altercation happened earlier in the day involving two women and a juvenile along with 47-year-old Tracy Adams. The adult females and juvenile fled the scene and sought refuge at the home of 31-year-old Brandi Hauck.
Investigators believe Adams drove to Hauck’s residence and ordered her to leave at gunpoint. PSP said Adams then fired through the door, striking Hauck in the head and killing her.
He then allegedly forced his way into the home, and authorities believe he intended to cause grave bodily harm to the people who ran there. It was then, however, that the child was able to get a weapon and fire at Adams while he is believed to have been threatening the two adult females.
The shot struck him in the head and killed him.
After investigating, the district attorney told local media that the child was justified and acted in self-defense. The inquiry into the tragic incident continues.
There are many moving parts to this case, but the central theme is that a violent attacker was stopped before more innocent life was lost. Having already allegedly killed one person at the residence, there is no reason to believe the older man would have stopped there.
The child will bear close observance for aftereffects of such a traumatic experience, but unquestionably they did the right thing. Without a gun ready at the scene, an already bad situation could have been much worse.
