Harrisburg – Attorney General Michelle Henry revealed the sentencing of 30-year-old Paul Kerr to a prison term of 7 to 14 years following his involvement in a shooting at Pagan’s Place bar in Allentown on January 7, 2023. Kerr had pleaded guilty to attempting to commit homicide, unlawful possession of a firearm, and discharging a gun into an occupied structure in connection with the case.
Attorney General Henry expressed her concerns about the lack of value for human life exhibited by Kerr’s actions, emphasizing the emotional impact such incidents can have even when physical harm is avoided. Stressing her commitment to preserving public safety, she highlighted the importance of accountability for individuals who endanger the well-being of Pennsylvanians through the irresponsible and unlawful use of firearms.
An investigation by the Allentown Police Department found that Kerr entered Pagan’s Place bar on the evening in question, leading to a confrontation with the bar’s owner, Luis Pagan, who had urged him to leave. After leaving briefly, Kerr returned and fired multiple shots towards the bar, causing property damage. F
ortunately, no patrons were inside the bar at the time of the incident. The firearm used in the shooting was documented under Kerr’s wife’s name.
The case was handled by Senior Deputy Attorney General Rebecca Elo following its referral from the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office.