SPRINGDALE TOWNSHIP, PA — A Pennsylvania tow truck employee has been charged with criminal homicide after shooting his manager during a workplace dispute, authorities reported.
Incident Details
On Wednesday, Niko Hostler, 32, was working at Oaks Auto & Truck Service when his shift was nearly over. Manager Christopher Ashbaugh, 53, asked Hostler to go out on a call, prompting an argument between the two men. Hostler alleged that Ashbaugh punched and pushed him and that he feared for his life, not knowing whether his manager had a weapon. Hostler then fired a gun at Ashbaugh, who was transported to a local hospital and pronounced dead.
Witness Account
Amanda Mattern, a nearby resident, reportedly witnessed much of the altercation. She told local news outlets she heard the men arguing and then “pop pop pop pop” as shots were fired. She also heard Ashbaugh calling for help while lying on the ground.
Legal Proceedings
Hostler was arrested and is being held without bail at the Allegheny County Jail. He had a preliminary arraignment on Thursday and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on June 3.
