A McDonald's employee recognized Steve Stephens as he was going through the drive-thru just before he shot and killed himself in Erie Tuesday.
According to the manager of the McDonald's on Buffalo Road in Harborcreek Township, an employee thought the man in the drive-thru might be Stephens so they called Pennsylvania State Police.
"[The employee] said 'I think that's the guy. Can you double check I'm right?’” said franchise owner Thomas DuCharme. “When I saw him I knew it was him. It fits the profile. He didn't look that different than the picture but his beard was trimmed down."
DuCharme said Stephens took his meal but they told him he had to wait for fries. They were trying to give police time to arrive but Stephens took off.
DuCharme later released a statement:
“I’m thankful for the quick actions of my crew members to identify the suspect and commend the authorities for their efforts in informing the public of this individual. The entire McDonald’s family’s thoughts and prayers are with the families affected by this tragic situation.”
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A short time later, Pennsylvania State Police spotted Stephens.
Troopers initiated a pursuit that lasted about two miles before attempting a PUT maneuver to stop Stephens' vehicle.
As the car was spinning out of control, Stephens shot and killed himself.
Stephens was wanted for the shooting death of Robert Godwin Sr. After he shot Godwin, Stephens posted a video of the shooting on Facebook.
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