Redstone Township man fatally shot by police during welfare check

Investigators were mum Wednesday after a police officer shot and killed a man at his Redstone Township home after relatives called for help because they were worried he might harm himself.
According to a state police spokesman, Redstone Township police were dispatched to check on the welfare of Christopher Hackney, 27, around 9 p.m. Tuesday at 132 Lyndale Road, Grindstone.
A Wednesday release from state police provided no details about what led to the shooting. The statement began with the arrival of law enforcement and segued directly into Hackney dying at the scene.
“Upon police arrival, officers came into contact with the male at his residence. The male was treated on scene per medical staff, however he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene,” the release stated.
Later in the day Wednesday, Fayette County District Attorney Mike Aubele said the investigation was “still very active.” Once that investigation is complete, Aubele said he planned to release additional information.
According to Fayette County property records, the house police were called to belongs to Brian and Stacy Hackney. It is unclear how they are related to Christopher Hackney.
The Hackneys’ home sits on top of a hill at the end of Lyndale Road. Several flags are draped across the property and cats strolled through the front yard Wednesday morning.
Several neighbors politely declined comment, wanting to respect their neighbors’ privacy.
Redstone Township Supervisor George Matis declined comment beyond saying the shooting is under investigation. Redstone Township police also did not respond to a request for comment.
Details such as how many shots were fired, where Hackney was struck and what led the township officer to fire on Hackney remain unclear.
Fayette County Coroner Dr. Bob Baker said he was unable to provide additional details due to the ongoing investigation. He estimated it will take about two months for the autopsy report to be prepared.
Staff Writer Jon Andreassi contributed to this report.