Penn Hills mayor tries to reassure community after string of shootings

The mayor of Penn Hills stood up for the safety of the community despite a string of deadly shootings in January, including a fatal incident over the weekend.

“We are doing everything we can, as municipal leaders, to keep Penn Hills safe,” Mayor Pauline Calabrese said in a statement.

At least three fatal shootings have occurred in Penn Hills this month.

Gregory Anderson, 47, was shot multiple times on the 8800 block of Marion Way on Jan. 5; Nazbir Chambers, 21, was found shot in a car on Fielding Drive on the same day; and Jamal Pamplin, 32, was found shot on Frankstown Road on Sunday night.

Ms. Calabrese said gun violence is happening all over the country and it is not a reflection of the Penn Hills community.

“Penn Hills has close to 30 neighborhoods,” she said. “These unrelated and sporadic incidents do not define who we are as a community, nor are they a reflection of our neighborhoods, community values and the quality of life here. In fact, statistics show that many of the actors involved are not even Penn Hills residents.”

The incidents are being investigated by Allegheny County Police, the statement said.

Ms. Calabrese also said she has spoken with the Penn Hills chief of police and other community leaders to find new ways to keep the area safe.

Residents with information about any of the incidents are asked to contact 1-833-ALL-TIPS. Callers can remain anonymous.

The department can also be reached via its social media sites.