According to a criminal complaint filed September 28, Lucas Aron Gartrell, 28, is suspected of killing José Alberto Duran Jr., 55, a sworn Hideout Public Safety Officer, and shooting both of his parents, Lisa and Robert Gartrell.
Investigators say Gartrell opened fire on his parents outside their Lakewood Drive home at around 3:41 p.m. while wearing tactical gear and camouflage clothing. Both Lisa and Robert Gartrell were struck by many shots and eventually rushed to surrounding hospitals with critical injuries.
Officer Duran was immediately killed as Gartrell turned his weapon on him. At the time, Duran was in uniform, on duty, and driving a designated Hideout Public Safety vehicle.
Following the gunshots, witnesses claimed to have seen Gartrell fleeing the scene on a motorized cycle or scooter while wearing tactical gear and camouflage. He was spotted near the North Gate of The Hideout a few minutes later. After being chased by troopers, he finally collided into a stand of pine trees on Miller Road.
Officers discovered a handgun, knives, and many filled magazines strewn across the ground at the scene of the collision. Gartrell was wearing camouflage gear, carrying extra ammunition, and a gray leather jacket over a tactical vest when he was taken into custody.
There is no bail for Gartrell. With support from the Wayne County District Attorney’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police – Troop R, Honesdale, is spearheading the investigation.
As soon as they become available, more details will be shared.
