Teen Arrested After Gunfire and Tip Jar Theft in Pittsburgh's Beechview Neighborhood

PITTSBURGH, PA — A juvenile is in custody facing multiple felony charges after a simple theft escalated into a shootout on the streets of Pittsburgh's Beechview neighborhood.

The incident occurred on the afternoon of January 20, 2024, when a 17-year-old male, identified in court documents as Marcus Glass, entered the popular Las Palmas taco stand located in the 1600 block of Broadway Avenue. The suspect grabbed a tip jar containing cash from the counter and fled on foot.

Foot Chase and Exchange of Gunfire

Several employees from the business immediately pursued the suspect down the street. As they neared the intersection of Hampshire Avenue and Rutherford Avenue, the teenager turned and fired multiple rounds at the pursuing employees. In response, at least one employee, who possessed a valid carrying permit, returned fire. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the gunfire.

Pittsburgh Police quickly established a perimeter in the residential area. A K9 unit tracked the suspect, locating him hiding in the backyard of a home on the 1600 block of Belasco Avenue. Officers also recovered a handgun, which was later determined to have been reported stolen from Swissvale in April 2023. The juvenile has been charged with robbery, aggravated assault, and weapons violations, and is being held at the Allegheny County Jail.