Police respond to shooting, find pot-growing operation

Staff report

new castle, pa.

A man was shot multiple times during a home invasion, and police who responded to the shooting said they found a marijuana- growing operation in the basement at the house.

Police said the shooting happened at 5:51 p.m. Wednesday at 150 Quest St., Apt. 4.

Christopher Donofrio, 25, who also lives at 150 Quest, was shot in the face and torso by the building’s owner, Jeffrey Walker, 41, police said. It appears that Donofrio entered the apartment by breaking out a window, police said.

Police said he went toward Walker with a hatchet and a folding knife and was shot.

While police were conducting a protective search of the house, they discovered the plants, a police report says.

They executed a search warrant and found 30 marijuana plants, grow lights and other equipment, four assault rifles and ammunition, the report says.

Police charged Walker with manufacture of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Police said Thursday they have not yet filed charges in the shooting.

Donofrio was taken to St. Elizabeth Health Center. The hospital had no information on him Thursday.