State Rep. Steele secures state grant for emergency alert system in Brackenridge, Harrison and Tarentum

The police manhunt in Brackenridge on Monday unfolded over hours into a frantic scene that drew dozens of police from across the region, but residents were largely kept in the dark about what was happening.

Later that afternoon, Chief Justin McIntire was ambushed by suspect Aaron Lamont Swan Jr. between two homes along Third Avenue while residents were told to barricade indoors.

“In emergency situations, our first responders need to be able to reach residents fast,” said newly elected 33rd House Rep. Mandy Steele of Fox Chapel.

She announced funding Thursday for an emergency alert system to improve split-second communication among residents of Harrison, Tarentum and Brackenridge.

Steele secured about $20,000 in state money to pay for the launch and maintenance of the emergency alert system for the first couple of years.

“I called and asked what they needed in the face of this incredible loss,” Steele said. “Many said that something like this would’ve helped fill in the gaps.”

Tarentum Council President Scott Dadowski met with Steele on Thursday after a community vigil for McIntire. He said immediacy of the new system is huge.

“While we might be three separate municipalities, we truly are one community,” Dadowski said.

“Anytime we can communicate with our residents in real time, it’s a help.”

Aside from his leadership role in the borough, Dadowski said, “I’m a husband and a dad, and I’m concerned about the safety of my family just like residents of all three communities.”

It was unclear if the system would rely on texts or calls to deliver messages. Residents likely will need to register for the program.

“Instead of relying on Facebook like we all do when something’s going on, people can sign up for a text or call and get accurate information,” said Autumn Monaghan, Steele’s chief of staff.

Brackenridge Mayor Lindsay Fraser said it will be significant in her small town.

“It will make a big difference to be able to get messages out immediately,” she said.

John Stanzione, vice president of Brackenridge Council, was appreciative of Steele’s help in getting the system off the ground so quickly.

“She’s coming right out of the gate and working with our community,” Stanzione said.

“I’m hopeful that this can help us avoid situations like Monday and have all our departments work together even more closely than they already do.”