The suspect, Jamil Branche, was arraigned over video Thursday morning, while he’s being held in the Cambria County Prison.
The 16-year-old Johnstown resident is accused of shooting his father, Weldon Branche, Wednesday evening around 5:30 at the intersection of Dorothy Avenue and Leroy Street in the West End section of Johnstown.
In court paperwork, witnesses said the father tried to talk with Jamil and then punched him. That’s when Jamil allegedly shot his father several times.
The father was rushed to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center for surgery. Johnstown police said he is still in the hospital, but he should survive.
Branche was arrested near Oakhurst Homes shortly after the shooting. Another teenager that ran from the scene was also stopped by police. Investigators said he helped Branche stash the gun, which they found in a laundry room. That teenager could face charges, as well.
Police said Jamil Branche was known to police and his name has come up in connection to other shootings in the area.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Thursday, March 2nd at 9 a.m.
Branche is facing multiple charges, including aggravated assault and illegally possessing a gun. He will be tried as an adult.
