Police: McKees Rocks man was homicide victim

A McKees Rocks man found dead in a wooded area in Washington County appears to be the victim of a homicide, officials said Friday.

Ryan Ramirez, 21, was reported missing by his family, who contacted Kennedy Township police Thursday. State police and Allegheny County homicide detectives found his body in a wooded area off Steubenville Pike in Burgettstown about 10 p.m. Thursday. Police said he appeared to have died from a gunshot wound, although autopsy results were not yet available.

“Preliminary investigation indicates that the homicide arose from a continuing course of conduct that originated in Allegheny County and proceeded to its culmination in Washington County,” authorities said.

County police, who are leading the investigation, asked anyone with information about Mr. Ramirez or his death to contact their homicide unit at 412-473-1300. Callers can remain anonymous.