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EXETER TWP. — An assistant chief at a local fire company has been identified as the victim in a shooting early this morning, and a Harding man has been charged in his death.
Robert Francis Kile, 57, of Harding was pronounced dead at at 2395 state Route 92 by the county coroner, Pennsylvania State Police said.
Peter Jonathan Gillis, 57, has been charged in the case and is scheduled to be arraigned this afternoon by video from the state police barracks in Wyoming.
The Harding-based Mt. Zion Bicentennial Fire Co., where Kile had been second assistant chief, posted a memorial message on its Facebook page Friday afternoon.
“Our hearts are broken. Please keep our family, especially the Kile family in your prayers,” the post read.
Other departments, including the West Hazleton Fire Department, also posted condolence messages.
“West Hazleton Fire Department sends its condolences to Mt. Zion Bicentennial Fire Company on the loss of their Deputy Chief. His work in his community, and Luzerne County has helped countless people in their time of need,” the post said.
“For those of us who knew him, our hearts will weigh with sadness at the loss of such a fine, kind, and caring individual.”
“Rest Easy Chief,” it concluded. “We’ll Take It From Here.”
Check back for updates.