A fishing tournament this summer will honor the legacy of slain Brackenridge police Chief Justin McIntire and create a scholarship in his name.
The Chief’s Challenge, scheduled for June 27, was founded as a way for the family to give back to the community, said McIntire’s mother, Lori.
She posted on social media that “so many wonderful people donated when Justin was ambushed. I just always felt that we needed to give back to our local communities that poured their love out to us.”
McIntire was killed in the line of duty on Jan. 2, 2023.
In the years since, various fundraisers have been held in his honor, including the annual Thunder Run at Evangel Heights Church in Buffalo Township.
That event is co-sponsored by the nonprofit Alle-Kiski Valley Back the Blue, as is the fishing derby.
“We want to shine the spotlight on what he enjoyed in life,” said Ron Balla, who heads the group. “This gives people a chance to join in and participate in what Justin really loved.”
The event will be at The Bonniebrook in Butler. It’s meant to reflect on McIntire’s passion for hunting, fishing and the outdoors.
The cost to register has not been released but details will be published on the Chief’s Challenge Facebook page.
Organizers are seeking sponsors and volunteers.
In her post, Lori McIntire credited McIntire’s sister, Tiffany (McIntire) Black, with the idea for the event.
“We want to make this a fun family day for all,” she wrote. “Just come out and enjoy being together. We appreciate all of you who were there and still are for my family and helping to keep Justin’s memory alive.”
Proceeds will be used to create a scholarship for a graduating Highlands senior.
Balla said it’s important for these types of events to go on, given that the Alle-Kiski Valley was struck with three law enforcement losses in 11 years. Lower Burrell Officer Derek Kotecki was shot and killed in 2011, followed by New Kensington Officer Brian Shaw in 2017.
“These incidents are meaningful to the community and it’s important to show everyone that we care,” Balla said. “It’s special to be able to touch on something that Justin was all about and to promote community at the same time.”