Erika Stanish
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Anchor, reporter and storyteller. Pittsburgh native. KDKA-TV | Retweets are not endorsements.
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Articles by Erika Stanish
A Pennsylvania high school football player went to the hospital after a hit. He was diagnosed with leukemia.
A Jeannette football player was diagnosed with leukemia after he was taken to the hospital during a game. In the first football game of the season, Dane Simmons took a hit during the first quarter at McKee Stadium on Aug. 28. He was taken off the field on a stretcher and rushed to UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. "When the moment happened, I remember the ball getting snapped, and then just falling," Simmons said.
Man kidnapped his ex-girlfriend, her grandmother and an infant in Pennsylvania, DA says
A man is behind bars after police said he allegedly kidnapped his ex-girlfriend, her grandmother and a baby on Aug. 28 in Uniontown, Pennsylvania. "He came in through a second-story window using a ladder and essentially held the victims hostage for the entire weekend," said Mike Aubele, Fayette County's district attorney. Police said the suspect, Tylar Greenough, assaulted his ex-girlfriend and her grandmother.
Teen searched "what does God say about murder" after killing his girlfriend, investigators say
The 18-year-old accused of killing his girlfriend in Washington County, Pennsylvania, last month made numerous Google searches in the hours after stabbing her to death, investigators said. During Royce Moser's preliminary hearing on Tuesday at the Washington County Courthouse, investigators detailed what they found after searching the 18-year-old's phone after he allegedly killed 18-year-old Karoline Heintz , a PennWest California freshman on the school's soccer team, on Aug.
Timeline of the killing of a PennWest college student by her boyfriend detailed by investigators
Royce Moser, the 18-year-old accused of killing his girlfriend last month and leaving her body inside a vehicle near PennWest University's California campus, was in a Washington County, Pennsylvania, courtroom on Tuesday for his preliminary hearing. Moser is accused of stabbing Karoline Heintz to death with a knife following an argument on Aug. 19.
These are the Google searches a teen made after killing his girlfriend, according to investigators
The 18-year-old accused of killing his girlfriend in Washington County, Pennsylvania, last month made numerous Google searches in the hours after stabbing her to death, investigators said. During Royce Moser's preliminary hearing on Tuesday at the Washington County Courthouse, investigators detailed what they found after searching the 18-year-old's phone after he allegedly killed 18-year-old Karoline Heintz, a PennWest California freshman on the school's soccer team, on Aug.
Forward Township supervisor questions value of contract with Elizabeth Township police
Police public safety services are being questioned in Forward Township. The Forward Township Police Department was disbanded in 2022, and shortly after, the township agreed to hire the Elizabeth Township Police Department to provide coverage in the area. But traffic enforcement has become a concern for one Forward Township supervisor, and recent changes in the township's contract are sparking some controversy.
Forward Township supervisor questions value of contract with Elizabeth Township police
Police public safety services are being questioned in Forward Township. The Forward Township Police Department was disbanded in 2022, and shortly after, the township agreed to hire the Elizabeth Township Police Department to provide coverage. But traffic enforcement has become a concern for one Forward Township supervisor, and recent changes in the township's contract are sparking some controversy.
Workers at Nippon Sanso Matheson Gas go on strike
Workers at Nippon Sanso Matheson Gas in Greensburg are on strike. They could be seen holding signs and standing in front of the facility on Garden Street on Thursday. "We are out here tonight for fighting for a fair wage and healthcare for all these guys here," said Johnny Higgins, the union steward. Higgins said a contract for the Teamsters Local 30 union workers at Matheson Gas expired at the end of June.
Woman stole more than $4,000 from Sean Sluganski memorial scholarship fund, police say
An Allegheny County woman is facing theft charges after police said she stole more than $4,000 from a scholarship fund created to honor a fallen McKeesport police officer. Tracy Whitney was charged this week after police said the 51-year-old woman used money from the McKeesport Area Fallen Heroes Scholarship Fund for her own personal benefit. The fund was created in memory of Officer Sean Sluganski, who was killed in the line of duty in 2023 while responding to a domestic situation.
Pennsylvania State Police trooper running marathon in full uniform to honor fallen trooper
A Pennsylvania State Police trooper from Uniontown, Fayette County, plans to run a marathon in full uniform to honor a trooper killed in the line of duty and raise money for his family. Not only does Cpl. Montana Trombetta want to collect $100,000 for the family of Cpl.
Woman stole more than $4,000 from Sean Sluganski memorial scholarship fund, police say
An Allegheny County woman is facing theft charges after police said she stole more than $4,000 from a scholarship fund created to honor a fallen McKeesport police officer. Tracy Whitney was charged this week after police said the 51-year-old woman used money from the McKeesport Area Fallen Heroes Scholarship Fund for her own personal benefit. The fund was created in memory of Officer Sean Sluganski, who was killed in the line of duty in 2023 while responding to a domestic situation.
Pennsylvania State Police trooper running marathon in full uniform to honor fallen trooper
A Pennsylvania State Police trooper from Uniontown, Fayette County, plans to run a marathon in full uniform to honor a trooper killed in the line of duty and raise money for his family. Not only does Cpl. Montana Trombetta want to collect $100,000 for the family of Cpl.
Karoline Heintz, college student allegedly killed by boyfriend, remembered for "sweet, beautiful soul"
Karoline Heintz, a PennWest California soccer player who police said was killed by her boyfriend, is being remembered for her "sweet, beautiful soul." Heintz was allegedly stabbed to death by her 18-year-old boyfriend , who told investigators that a "demon" took over and told him to injure his girlfriend, according to the criminal complaint. The 18-year-old woman was found dead inside her vehicle near the California Public Library in Washington County on Thursday morning.
Karoline Heintz, college student allegedly killed by boyfriend, remembered for "sweet, beautiful soul"
Karoline Heintz, a PennWest California soccer player who police said was killed by her boyfriend, is being remembered for her "sweet, beautiful soul." Heintz was allegedly stabbed to death by her 18-year-old boyfriend, who told investigators that a "demon" took over and told him to injure his girlfriend, according to the criminal complaint. The 18-year-old woman was found dead inside her vehicle near the California Public Library in Washington County on Thursday morning.
Pennsylvania college soccer player found dead in vehicle; boyfriend and his mother charged
ByMike Darnay, Erika Stanish Friday, August 21, 2026 3:13PM Live streaming newscasts, breaking news, weather & original, local programming. CALIFORNIA, Penn. -- An 18-year-old man and his mother are facing charges after his girlfriend, an 18-year-old soccer player from PennWest California, was found dead inside a vehicle near the Washington County campus early Thursday morning, KDKA reported.
Pennsylvania college soccer player found dead in vehicle; boyfriend and his mother charged
CALIFORNIA, Penn. -- An 18-year-old man and his mother are facing charges after his girlfriend, an 18-year-old soccer player from PennWest California, was found dead inside a vehicle near the Washington County campus early Thursday morning, KDKA reported. Karoline Heintz of McMurray was found dead inside a vehicle near the California Public Library along Wood Street around 12:30 a.m. local time Thursday, according to a release from the Washington County Coroner's Office.
School districts in Pittsburgh area in need of crossing guards for school year
As students get ready to head back to school, safety is top of mind when it comes to the school bus stop. Right now, some local districts report that they're in need of crossing guards to ensure students are getting to and from school safely. "We want someone to be part of our community to help these kids because in our community, especially our community, we need that. We need that assistance at the bus stop," said Archie Brinza, the McKees Rocks borough council president.
Rusty condition of train bridge that travels over Parkway West draws concern
A railroad bridge over the Parkway in Carnegie with visible rust and hanging pieces is drawing concern from the public. KDKA Investigates received several concerns about the integrity of the bridge, leading to an eight-month investigation into the bridge's safety. "It needs to be redone. But whether the railroad or whatever, it always takes a catastrophe for anything to get done, no matter what it is," Joe Marnik, the owner of Joe's Auto Classics in Carnegie, told KDKA Investigates.
Rusty condition of train bridge that travels over Parkway West draws concern
A railroad bridge, spanning over the Parkway in Carnegie, is drawing concern from the public as visible rust and pieces can be seen hanging from the bridge. KDKA Investigates has received several concerns about the integrity of the bridge, leading to an eight-month investigation into how safe the bridge is.
AI is changing the workforce. Skilled trades are seeing a boost as a result.
As artificial intelligence continues to change the way we work, it's also boosting job opportunities in some industries. Skilled trade jobs are in demand now more than ever, leading some to swap college for tool belts. For decades, many high school graduates strived for a four-year degree before entering the job market. Experts said that mindset is changing. "I just actually was dealing with a student that was going to go to a four-year institution.
Beaver Falls High School teacher charged with sending sexual text messages to student
A Beaver Falls High School teacher is facing charges after police said she was having an inappropriate relationship with a student. Sarah Massa, 24, was charged this week with corruption of minors, unlawful contact with a minor, corruption of minors with sexual contact and criminal use of a communication facility.
AI is changing the workforce. Skilled trades are seeing a boost as a result.
As artificial intelligence continues to change the way we work, it's also boosting job opportunities in some industries. Skilled trade jobs are in demand now more than ever, leading some to swap college for tool belts. For decades, many high school graduates strived for a four-year degree before entering the job market. Experts said that mindset is changing. "I just actually was dealing with a student that was going to go to a four-year institution.
AI is changing the workforce. Skilled trades are seeing a boost as a result.
5 Common Japanese-Style Knives And When To Use Them The more you cook, the more you realize how beneficial it is to have a sharp, sturdy, and reliable knife to prepare your food with. Not only does it …
Beaver Falls High School teacher charged with sending sexual text messages to student
A Beaver Falls High School teacher is facing charges after police said she was having an inappropriate relationship with a student. Sarah Massa, 24, was charged this week with corruption of minors, unlawful contact with a minor, corruption of minors with sexual contact and criminal use of a communication facility.
Is the cost of college still worth it? Here's what Pittsburgh-area universities and experts say.
For generations, going to college was considered one of the safest investments a high school graduate could make, but in today's world, the price tag is high, enrollment is changing, and new trends and technology are ever evolving. As artificial intelligence reshapes the workforce as we know it and social media brands and influencers take off, more students and families are asking if a college degree is still worth the cost. KDKA Investigates looked into the trends we're seeing in our region.
Postal store manager says she's intercepted large shipments of cash as Buffalo Township police warn of scams
A Pittsburgh-area police department is warning about scammers after investigating several cases where residents have fallen victim. The Buffalo Township Police Department told KDKA-TV that over the last several months, multiple elderly residents have lost nearly $100,000 to a scheme that is more sophisticated than investigators have ever seen before.
Officials mum about alleged theft at North Versailles tax collector's office
An investigation into alleged theft at the North Versailles tax collector's office is underway. KDKA Investigates has confirmed a township employee in the tax office has been terminated after a preliminary investigation into alleged theft. Sources told KDKA Investigates that an employee was caught stealing funds from the tax office. We went to the township manager's office for answers after making several phone calls to his office.
Lockdown after Westmoreland County warden's administrative leave was coincidental, official says
Speculation continues about why the Westmoreland County Prison warden was placed on leave around the same time the prison went on lockdown. Last Thursday, prison board Chairman Doug Chew said the prison went on lockdown around 2 p.m. One hour before, the prison board voted to place Warden Steve Pelesky on administrative leave. Chew said the timing is coincidental.
Pilot describes how routine flight turned into fight for survival: "A miracle"
Nearly a month after his plane crashed into a wooded area in Fayette County, a pilot is calling his survival a "miracle." On July 4, an ultralight plane crashed into the trees in Dunbar Township. The pilot, 75-year-old Gregory Beaver, talked with KDKA-TV on Tuesday about what happened. Nearly a month after his plane crashed into a wooded area in Fayette County, a pilot is calling his survival a "miracle." "I guess it was a miracle," he said.
Man found dead in car by Galaxy Gas can in Fayette County, prompting investigation and warning
An investigation is underway in Uniontown, Fayette County, after police said a man was found dead in his car with a can of Galaxy Gas on the floor. Police said they found the man after they were called for a welfare check in the parking lot of a vape shop along West Fayette Street on Monday. "Inside the vehicle, between his legs on the floor, we located the Galaxy Gas inhaler," said Tom Kolencik, a lieutenant with the Uniontown Police Department.
A clogged manhole is stinking up a small Fayette County community, and residents say no one will fix it
A small community in Fayette County is pushing for answers after finding what appears to be raw sewage spilling into the woods, stinking up their neighborhood. Residents in Luzerne Township said they discovered a clogged manhole about three weeks ago but said nothing has been done to address it. "It probably is human feces with tissue paper, contaminated soil, that we know of, and I'd say there's tons of it," said Luzerne Township resident Gary Kuklish.
Man wearing demon clown mask and wielding machete among 2 arrested in Pittsburgh-area crime spree
Two suspects are in custody after police said they went on a crime spree in an attempt to rob multiple gas stations in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties on July 9. Rostraver Township police said officers were called to the Marathon gas station along Route 51 shortly after midnight, where they found the clerk hiding in the kitchen of a business connected to the gas station. Police said the clerk reported two men, wearing masks, demanded money from the register, and one was armed with a machete.
How a 9-year-old girl's generosity led to a new barn at the Fayette County Fairgrounds
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the Fayette County Fairgrounds Wednesday to celebrate the opening of a new small species barn. Dozens of donations were made by the community, businesses and community stakeholders in support of the new building that cost nearly $1 million. "It's a big, big endeavor that the fair took on for the kids, for the future, because this barn here will last through my lifetime, her lifetime and hopefully her kids will be able to one day show here," CJ Diamond said.
Crime spree across Pittsburgh-area gas stations ends with 2 arrests
Two suspects are in custody after police said they went on a crime spree in an attempt to rob multiple gas stations in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties on July 9. Rostraver Township police said officers were called to the Marathon gas station along Route 51 shortly after midnight, where they found the clerk hiding in the kitchen of a business connected to the gas station. Police said the clerk reported two men, wearing masks, demanded money from the register, and one was armed with a machete.
Picklesburgh draws crowd despite "very unhealthy" air quality from wildfire smoke Original
PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania (KDKA) -- Picklesburgh moved forward as planned on Friday, with crowds mostly undeterred by the thick haze of wildfire smoke and the "very unhealthy" air quality it created. Multiple events were postponed or canceled because of the smoke. Kennywood and Sandcastle closed and the Pirates-Guardians game in Cleveland was rescheduled. As for Picklesburgh, Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership said it was monitoring conditions but decided to move forward with the event as planned.
Picklesburgh draws crowd despite "very unhealthy" air quality from wildfire smoke
Erika Stanish Picklesburgh moved forward as planned on Friday, with crowds mostly undeterred by the thick haze of wildfire smoke and the "very unhealthy" air quality it created. Multiple events were postponed or canceled because of the smoke. Kennywood and Sandcastle closed and the Pirates-Guardians game in Cleveland was rescheduled. As for Picklesburgh, Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership said it was monitoring conditions but decided to move forward with the event as planned.
Picklesburgh draws crowd despite "very unhealthy" air quality from wildfire smoke
Picklesburgh moved forward as planned on Friday, with crowds mostly undeterred by the thick haze of wildfire smoke and the "very unhealthy" air quality it created. Multiple events were postponed or canceled because of the smoke. Kennywood and Sandcastle closed, the the Pirates-Guardians game in Cleveland was rescheduled. As for Picklesburgh, Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership said it was monitoring conditions but decided to move forward with the event as planned.
Family of Yough High School student killed in crash says they haven't gotten money raised for them
Nearly four months after a tragic crash claimed the lives of four Yough High School students, one grieving family said they're now facing another heartbreaking ordeal. Authorities said 15-year-old Brady Hunker, 18-year-old Rocco Zugai, 15-year-old Felicity Martini and 16-year-old Kylee Korber died in the March 21 crash near Creek Road in Sewickley Township.
Pittsburghers brace for "hectic" Parkway East closure
The Parkway East is closing for 25 days so crews can replace the Commercial Street Bridge, and drivers and neighbors say they're feeling nervous. "Even though I know all of the shortcuts and whatnot, it's still going to be hectic," said Johnny Willett, who lives in Wilkins Township.
West Virginia doctor wanted for allegedly hiding cameras in hospital staff restrooms
A doctor is wanted by police in West Virginia for allegedly hiding cameras in staff restrooms at a hospital. Police have issued an arrest warrant for Lance Parks, who previously worked at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown. On June 26, police said employees at the hospital found a recording device concealed beneath a bathroom sink in a staff restroom. Investigators said they determined Parks placed the device there.
Westmoreland County residents voice frustrations amid data center speculation
Some residents in Westmoreland County are voicing their frustrations over speculation about possible data centers coming to their township. Angela Carson is one of many residents against data centers and said she started a petition to ban them in Rostraver Township. "We're hearing about all of these possibilities with a data center nearby. What should we do? We should do something," Carson said. She started the petition two days ago, and it already has over 1,000 signatures.
Pittsburgh prepares for crowded and hot July 4th celebration
Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to flock to Pittsburgh on Saturday to celebrate America's 250th birthday. Multiple live concerts will be held along with family-friendly events, a Ferris wheel and a hot air balloon on the North Shore, the South Side Street Fest on East Carson Street and the annual fireworks display and drone show. "We're making history in Pittsburgh," said Sheldon Williams, the director of Pittsburgh Public Safety.
AAA explains benefits of renters insurance after broken pipe floods woman's apartment
A Westmoreland County woman is demanding answers after she said a broken pipe flooded her apartment last week in Rostraver Township. Jennifer Pascarella said she's lived at the Rostraver Apartments for nine years and claims this isn't the first time a tenant has dealt with broken pipes at the complex. Pascarella said she had just gotten home last Friday when she noticed water in her hallway.
Washington County corrections officer charged with sending 16-year-old girl explicit images
A Washington County corrections officer is facing felony charges after allegedly sharing inappropriate pictures and videos with an underage high school student. Police said 27-year-old Curtis Gardner was arrested on Tuesday and taken to the Washington County Jail, where he was unable to post $150,000 bail. According to police paperwork, Gardner was using Snapchat to communicate with a 16-year-old female student at Ringgold High School.
Unlicensed kennel that "smelled like death" leads to charges against woman, officials say
A Washington County woman is facing animal cruelty and neglect charges after an anonymous tip to humane officers led them to her unlicensed kennel, where animals were living in deplorable conditions.
Residents say hundreds of rats are terrorizing their neighborhood
ROSTRAVER TOWNSHIP, Pa. (KDKA) - Beginning at dusk and throughout the night, cameras catch rats’ glowing eyes and slender tails darting through the dark. Residents in a neighborhood on Adams Drive say they’ve been setting traps, killing dozens over the last month, but the rat problem persists. “There are hundreds of rats,” resident Erin McCay said.
Residents say hundreds of rats are terrorizing their neighborhood
ROSTRAVER TOWNSHIP, Pa. (KDKA) - Beginning at dusk and throughout the night, cameras catch rats’ glowing eyes and slender tails darting through the dark. Residents in a neighborhood on Adams Drive say they’ve been setting traps, killing dozens over the last month, but the rat problem persists. “There are hundreds of rats,” resident Erin McCay said.
Residents say hundreds of rats are terrorizing their neighborhood
ROSTRAVER TOWNSHIP, Pa. (KDKA) - Beginning at dusk and throughout the night, cameras catch rats’ glowing eyes and slender tails darting through the dark. Residents in a neighborhood on Adams Drive say they’ve been setting traps, killing dozens over the last month, but the rat problem persists. “There are hundreds of rats,” resident Erin McCay said.
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