Homepage > Pittsburgh News
Join the "live wire" -- it's an easy way to talk snow and share information with our anchors, reporters, meteorologists and other Channel 4 Action News viewers! More

Man Accused Of Biting Officer Dies Days Later

Washington Officer Fires Taser Gun On Man

POSTED: 11:43 am EST November 21, 2009
UPDATED: 12:25 pm EST November 23, 2009

A man shocked with a Taser gun after police said he bit officers Thursday has died.

The Washington County Coroner's Office is investigating the death of Ronald Petruney, 49, of Washington. According to a statement from the coroner, Petruney died shortly before 7 a.m. Saturday at Washington Hospital.

Police in Washington were called to Jefferson Avenue on Thursday to help Petruney, who the officer noticed was having a seizure alongside the road. Washington police said Petruney became violent, charging the officer and swinging at him.

"Mr. Petruney was biting the officer several times. The officer sustained three, possibly four bite marks that he received medical attention for. As Mr. Petruney was being subdued or (as the officers were) trying to get him under control, the officers employed Tasers," Washington police Lt. Daniel Stanek said Thursday.

Police said officers fired a Taser gun on Petruney three times before he went into cardiac arrest.

A cause of death was not immediately known. The coroner did not indicate the Taser gun use was related to Petruney's death as an investigation continued.

According to a news release from the coroner's officer, the cause of death is pending the return of test results.




Local And Regional Headlines

WTAE-TV Pittsburgh on Facebook
Links We Like
Embellish an empty abode with these easy, inexpensive projects and make your home feel more like home. More

If you have aspirations of becoming a millionaire, check out these five habits that may be worth emulating. More

Negotiating a price on a new or used car is never fun. Find out from the insiders how to get the best price for you. More

Don't resign yourself to dry, dull, lifeless skin. Rediscover that healthy youthful glow with these tips. More

Health Topics & Information

Many seemingly healthy foods are actually bad for your heart. Learn how to replace the imposters with nutritionally rich foods. More

Sponsored Links