Man killed self after trying to abduct ex

HOLLIDAYBURG, Pa. (AP) — State police say a man fatally shot himself after trying to abduct his ex-girlfriend.

State police in Hollidaysburg say the situation unfolded about 5:30 p.m. Sunday when 46-year-old Michael Avery, of Martinsburg, tried to kidnap his ex-girlfriend in Freedom Township. Police say the woman escaped and called 911 from a convenience store.

Police chased Avery’s vehicle when they spotted it and he crashed into a ditch in Frankstown Township. Police say that’s when Avery killed himself with a shotgun.

Police tell the Altoona Mirror that they later learned Avery had rented a motel room where they found rope, duct tape, an eye mask and sleeping pills which they believe were intended for the woman.