PA Prosecutor Says Crossbow Kill Was Self-Defense

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In a recent case that has sparked public debate, a Pennsylvania prosecutor has claimed that a fatal incident involving a crossbow was an act of self-defense. The incident, which occurred in Sharon, Pennsylvania, near the Ohio border, began as a domestic dispute that turned deadly.

Case of Self-Defense

Mercer County District Attorney Jacob Sander stated that Billy Colwell’s death from a single crossbow shot was self-defense. While Sander did not disclose the exact circumstances, it is known that Colwell was shot in the shoulder with a crossbow before being taken to the hospital, where he later died of his wound. Mercer County Coroner John Libonati determined that the cause of death was a penetrating wound to the chest.

Legal Context of Crossbows

In Pennsylvania, adults are generally allowed to purchase and possess crossbows, which are broadly legal hunting implements under regulations administered by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Hunters may use crossbows during archery seasons and certain other lawful hunting seasons if they hold a hunting license and comply with PGC regulations, including a minimum draw-weight requirement of 125 pounds and specifications for the bolts or arrows used from the crossbow.

Popularity of Crossbows in Hunting

Crossbows have become an increasingly common hunting tool, although no authoritative national estimate of total U.S. crossbow ownership is available. At least 33 states allow crossbow use during at least one part of hunting season, according to the National Deer Association. A 2025 study by the Archery Trade Association and Responsive Management surveyed more than 10,000 licensed bowhunters in 13 states and found that 5,398 respondents, about 54%, had hunted with a crossbow within the previous five years. The study’s findings suggest crossbows are now used by a substantial share of hunters, particularly experienced sportsmen who hunt using multiple methods.

Source: Daily Caller

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claire.thomson