Struthers man injured in gunfire exchange

Staff report

STRUTHERS

A West Lewis Street homeowner is in the hospital after being shot Tuesday morning by a burglar.

Officers from Struthers, Campbell and Poland Township responded to 34 W. Lewis St. about 2:30 a.m. after several neighbors reported hearing gunshots in the area.

When police arrived at the residence, they discovered that the homeowner had been shot. He is now at St. Elizabeth Health Center in stable condition, said police, who said he was shot “a couple” of times in an exchange of gunfire.

The burglar likely fired first, said Detective Jeff Lewis of the Struthers Police Department, adding that the homeowner probably returned fire after being confronted in the basement.

Police don’t yet have all the details on how the shooting happened. The investigation continues.

No one has been arrested yet, though Lewis said police are considering some suspects.

Lewis added that such incidents are highly unusual for the area, though a burglary took place “directly in the backyard” of 34 W. Lewis St., at 37 Wetmore Drive, earlier this month.

Police arrested two in connection with the Wetmore Drive burglary, but Lewis said he’s doubtful the Sept. 2 Wetmore incident, which involved a relative’s breaking into the house to steal drugs, and Tuesday morning’s incident are related.

Lewis said he encourages residents to report any suspicious activity in the area, including strange cars lingering in the street or unknown people walking around at night.

“Just give us a call,” he said.

The Struthers Police Department can be reached by calling 330-755-9849.