LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. – A suspected serial bank robber apparently shoots himself after being cornered by Pennsylvania State Police in eastern Lancaster County.
State Police say the suspect committed a robbery at about 10:53 am this morning in the 1500 block of Reading Road, Brecknock Township. The suspect then fled the scene and committed multiple other attempted vehicle thefts and home invasion/burglaries.
With the help of witnesses and victims responding state police were able to identified the home the suspect was hiding in and establish a small perimeter. The suspect subsequently made a dash for freedom on foot with police in pursuit.
According to police, while running away, the suspect fired a single shot from a handgun intentionally striking himself. No other shots were fired by police or anyone else.
The suspect was immediately assisted by state police and EMS personnel. The suspect was evacuated by helicopter to a medical center for treatment. A small caliber handgun was recovered at the scene. The name of suspect is being withheld. State Police say their investigation continues.
UPDATE: The suspect is identified as Donald Rutkowski Jr, 35, of Leesport.