HARRISBURG, PA — A Potter County jury has convicted a repeat felon who authorities say opened fire outside a crowded Coudersport bar, bringing a violent confrontation to a close more than two years after shots rang out in the parking lot.
Attorney General Dave Sunday announced that 59-year-old Richard J. Hurst was found guilty of felony possession of a prohibited firearm, firearms not to be carried without a license, and misdemeanor simple assault. Hurst, who has five prior felony convictions dating to the 1980s and 1990s, will be sentenced following a pre-sentencing investigation.
“This defendant has had more than enough opportunities to reform his behavior, and continues to engage in criminal acts — in this case, callously opening fire in the parking lot of an occupied establishment,” Sunday said. “Repeat offenders who illegally carry and use firearms are dangers to society, and we thank the jurors for their time and attention to this serious matter.”
The incident unfolded on August 17, 2023, shortly after 10 p.m. at Vinnie’s Bar, located at 762 North Main Street. Prosecutors said Hurst became involved in a verbal dispute with other patrons before leaving the area. Around midnight, authorities said, he returned and fired two shots from his vehicle, then attempted to enter the bar while displaying the firearm.
Police intervened before anyone inside the establishment was injured. The Coudersport Borough Police Department led the investigation and later referred the case to the Office of Attorney General for prosecution.
The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Andrew Biggins. A sentencing date has not yet been announced.
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