Former Pennsylvania Parole Agent Acquitted in Woodard Shooting

A jury acquitted Pennsylvania state parole agent Kevin Seelinger of all charges in the 2025 fatal shooting of parolee Marchello Woodard during a compliance check in Erie. Seelinger testified that he fired in self-defense because he feared Woodard’s car would run him over; prosecutors argued Seelinger shot Woodard before being dragged by the car. The case drew protests and renewed debate over deadly force, accountability and public trust in law enforcement. Erie County District Attorney Elizabeth Hirz urged residents to respond peacefully, while Mayor Daria Devlin acknowledged community anger and grief and affirmed the importance of peaceful protest and continued calls for accountability.