CENTER TOWNSHIP, PA – A Pennsylvania police officer faces multiple charges, including involuntary manslaughter, in the death of a man trying to assist at a chaotic crime scene. John J. Hawk, a 37-year-old Center Township officer, was indicted for his actions in a Walmart parking lot incident on November 6, 2022.
The Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office reports that Kenneth Vinyard, 48, was present during a shooting in the Beaver County Walmart parking lot. Amidst the confusion, Vinyard approached officers to share information on his phone, believed to be crucial in locating the shooter.
An altercation ensued when Vinyard interrupted Hawk, who was off-duty and in civilian clothes. Hawk physically moved Vinyard, leading to a confrontation where Hawk struck Vinyard and performed a leg sweep. Vinyard sustained a fatal head injury from the fall, dying upon hospital arrival.
Hawk now faces charges of involuntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, simple assault, reckless endangerment, and perjury. The incident raises questions about the conduct and decision-making of off-duty officers in emergency situations.