Allentown, PA – District Attorney Gavin P. Holihan and Allentown Police Chief Charles Roca have released preliminary details concerning a fatal shooting that occurred in the early morning hours of Sunday, July 6, 2025. The incident, which is still under active investigation, unfolded at the intersection of 5th and Hamilton Streets in downtown Allentown and has resulted in one confirmed fatality.
Incident Overview
At approximately 3:37 AM, Allentown Police were dispatched to the scene following reports of a shooting. According to authorities, the violence stemmed from a physical altercation between the occupants of two vehicles—an Audi carrying two individuals and a Toyota Prius driven by a single individual.
Upon arrival, law enforcement detained two individuals for investigative purposes. Meanwhile, one person—believed to be the driver of the Audi—was transported by Emergency Medical Services to Lehigh Valley Health Network at Cedar Crest Boulevard. Tragically, the individual succumbed to their injuries and was pronounced deceased shortly after arriving at the hospital.
While the official cause and manner of death will be determined pending an autopsy by the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office, early reports indicate the decedent died as a result of a single gunshot wound inflicted by a 9mm handgun.
Surveillance Footage and Timeline
Investigators have reviewed surveillance footage from nearby businesses and traffic cameras, which have helped reconstruct the events leading up to the shooting:
- Both vehicles were traveling westbound on the 400 block of West Hamilton Street.
- The Audi accelerated and overtook the Prius, subsequently forcing the Prius to the curb as the vehicles crossed 5th Street.
- Once stopped, the driver of the Audi exited his vehicle wielding what appeared to be a metal baseball/softball training bat.
- The driver of the Audi struck the driver’s side door of the Prius with the bat in an aggressive manner.
- At that point, the driver of the Prius fired a single shot, striking the Audi’s driver.
- Following the shot, the attacker ceased the assault, moved away from the Prius, and dropped the bat.
The driver of the Prius then managed to safely drive approximately 1.5 blocks away, parked the vehicle, and called 911, remaining at the location until police arrived. A legally owned 9mm handgun was recovered from the driver.
Legal Status and Identities
Authorities have confirmed that no charges have been filed at this time against the driver of the Prius. As such, his identity is being withheld in accordance with legal protocols. The second occupant of the Audi, who remained at the original scene and was not injured, will also not be publicly identified at this stage.
Officials stress that the investigation is ongoing and that final determinations regarding any potential charges will be made after all evidence has been thoroughly reviewed.
Ongoing Investigation
The case is being handled by Detective Sergeant Damian Murray and Detective Jonathan Manning of the Allentown Police Department, in collaboration with the Lehigh County Homicide Task Force, the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office, and the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office.
District Attorney Holihan and Chief Roca emphasized their commitment to transparency and thoroughness as the investigation progresses. “This case involves a complex sequence of events that requires detailed examination of evidence, surveillance footage, witness statements, and forensic data,” said Holihan. “We ask the public for patience as we work to ensure that justice is served, wherever the facts lead.”
Anyone with additional information or relevant footage is encouraged to contact the Allentown Police Department’s tip line.
Contact Information
For media inquiries or to provide information related to the case, please contact:
Allentown Police Department – (610) XXX-XXXXt
Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office – (610) XXX-XXXX
This release will be updated as new information becomes available. The community is encouraged to remain calm and refrain from speculation as law enforcement continues its diligent work in this matter.
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