Here are a few morning news items from across the region for Monday, March 31, 2025:
Horse and buggy robberies in Mercer County
Two horse and buggy drivers reported to state police in Mercer County that they were approached separately by an armed motorist who demanded their wallets.
The first incident was reported at 8 p.m. Thursday in Lackawannock Township. The buggy driver told troopers a small black car stopped in the road and a man pointed a gun at him and demanded his wallet, which the driver handed the suspect, according to a news release.
While investigating that incident, police said they learned of a second similar armed robbery involving another horse and buggy driver. That driver refused to turn over his wallet and the car drove away.
Both horse and buggy drivers told troopers that the man with the gun was wearing dark-colored clothing and a medical mask.
Hate tag investigated in Beaver County
Police in Beaver County reported making an arrest Sunday in connection with an investigation into a hate symbol spray painted on the side of a residential building, according to the department’s social media.
Authorities first made a plea seeking information on Friday and said a $2,500 reward was being offered. Trib news partner WTAE reported that several swastikas were spray painted on the building.
Police said Sunday that they were able to identify a vehicle used in the incident which led them to a disgruntled contractor who they believe targeted the property because of a business dispute. Authorities did not release the suspect’s name or say what charges that person would face.
“This act of antisemitism is unacceptable and does not reflect the values of our community,” police said in the social media post.
