Authorities in Pennsylvania have arrested and charged a suspect in connection with the fatal stabbing of a state police officer on a pedestrian trail near Pittsburgh. The incident occurred on Monday when a 44-year-old Pennsylvania State Police Liquor Enforcement Officer, Benjamin Brallier, was attacked while running on the Montour Trail.
The suspect, identified as 25-year-old Anthony Quesen, also known as Antonia Kaseim, has been charged with criminal homicide and is set to be arraigned on Nov. 1. The Allegheny County Police Department responded to a 911 call reporting an injured man on the trail, where they found Officer Brallier with a stab wound. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Brallier succumbed to his injuries.
Quesen had a prior criminal record and had been released on non-monetary bail in 2023 following an arrest for robbery. This has sparked criticism from officials, with Allegheny County Councilman Sam DeMarco calling for the resignation of the judge who oversaw Quesen's previous case.
Officer Brallier was described as a dedicated law enforcement officer who was actively involved in community service initiatives. His tragic death has deeply impacted his colleagues and the community at large.
Allegheny County District Attorney Michelle Henry expressed her condolences, emphasizing the risks that officers face in the line of duty. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and contact the County Police Tip Line at 1-833-ALL-TIPS.
