- Jessica Hilliard, a 34-year-old mother, was shot and killed while helping a woman in distress outside a bar in Parks Township.
- David Dunmire, the shooter, was arrested at the scene and faces criminal homicide charges.
- Hilliard's actions during the violent confrontation have led her community to remember her as a selfless hero.
PARKS TOWNSHIP, PENNSYLVANIA — Jessica Hilliard, a 34-year-old mother who didn't hesitate to help someone in trouble, was shot and killed early Sunday morning. Hilliard rushed outside Niki's Quick Six bar to assist a woman who was crying for help during a heated argument.
Jessica Hilliard was struck multiple times in the chest and passed away from her injuries at the scene.
A Brave Act of Protection
The trouble began around 1 a.m. when a woman ran into the bar and told the crowd she had been "jumped" outside. Jessica Hilliard and several other patrons immediately stepped out to see what was happening. As they walked through the door, David Dunmire reportedly pulled out a gun and fired seven times at the group.
Investigators say David Dunmire was the individual arguing with the woman before he turned his weapon on the bystanders.
The Arrest and Legal Charges
Police arrested David Dunmire right at the scene of the shooting. The 36-year-old now faces a long list of serious charges, including criminal homicide and three counts of attempted homicide. Three other people were hit by the gunfire; one remains in critical condition while the other two are listed as stable.
David Dunmire was arraigned later that day and is currently being held as he waits for his court hearing on May 7.
Remembering a Local Hero
The local community is now mourning Jessica Hilliard as a selfless hero. Her sister, Hailey Frawley, said that Jessica simply couldn't stand by while a woman was being hurt. Friends have set up a fundraiser to support her three children, describing Jessica as a strong and protective woman who always put herself in harm's way to do what was right.
Family members shared that Jessica Hilliard was the kind of person who always stepped in when someone needed help.
For more on this bar shooting and other stories of tragic heroism, check out our video here:
