>>More Findings Released in Officer-Involved Shooting of Lt. William Lebo
(Lebanon, PA) -- The Lebanon County District Attorney's office has released more findings about a suspect-shooting last week that took the life of Lieutenant William Lebo. A news release says the D.A.'s initial investigation shows suspect Travis Shaud had a history of mental health issues and had refused treatment. Shaud was killed in an exchange of gunfire at the scene. Two other officers who were hit are now recovering.
LEBANON COUNTY, Pa. — Lebanon County District Attorney Pier Hess Graf revealed new details from the shooting on March 31 that killed one Lebanon City 40-year police veteran and injured two other officers.
“All I can say to the Lebo family, to every single one of our police officers, I am so grateful to each of you,” District Attorney Graf said during a press conference Thursday, voice cracking. “And I’m also so heartbreakingly and truly sorry.”
“Every day, we expect our police officers to suit up, patrol our streets and keep us safe,” she explained. “And every day, with every call, with every scene, they respond. Our police officers take that ultimate risk and they do that for each of us.”
Shaud cut off family ties months ago. After struggling with his mental health for years, he rejected family intervention and treatment.
“On the day of his attack, Shaud was on parole for assault,” District Attorney Graf explained. “His history showed a Protection from Abuse Order and a PFA violation.”
On scene Thursday, Lebanon City Police put an entry plan for the house in place with the help of Shaud’s family. One officer stayed out front of the home while four others went to the back. Lieutenant William Lebo was first in line.
“[Lebo] laid down his life for his brothers and for our community,” District Attorney Graf said.
Lieutenant Lebo asked Shaud to show his hands. Shaud refused, grabbing a gun instead.
“[Shaud] escalated it from a simple, ‘I’m not going to show you my hands,’ to drawing a fire arm and immediately continuing with a spray of gunfire within seconds,” she continued.