WEST CHESTER, PA — Authorities in Chester County announced the arrest of Daniel Montalto, Sr., 52, following a domestic violence-related incident in Spring City that escalated into a standoff with law enforcement. The incident, which unfolded overnight, involved Montalto allegedly discharging a firearm multiple times within his residence.
The Chester County District Attorney’s Office, along with the Spring City Police Department, disclosed that Montalto is facing charges of Aggravated Assault among other related accusations. He is currently detained at the Chester County Prison, awaiting further legal proceedings; details on bail have not been made available.
District Attorney Christopher L. de Barrena-Sarobe highlighted the dangerous intersection of domestic violence and firearms in the incident. “The Defendant assaulted his family and caused a standoff with the Chester County Emergency Response Team after firing his gun repeatedly inside his home,” he stated. The DA also expressed relief that the confrontation did not result in any gunshot injuries and reassured the community’s safety following the resolution of the standoff.
According to the criminal complaint provided by the Spring City Police Department, law enforcement was summoned to Montalto’s residence late on the evening of April 29, 2024, responding to reports of a domestic altercation. Upon their arrival, officers encountered a victim displaying evident physical injuries, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Attempts by officers to enter the home were halted by a family member who warned them of Montalto’s possession of a firearm. The situation escalated, prompting a coordinated response from neighboring police departments, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Chester County Emergency Response Team, a specialized SWAT unit.
Despite numerous attempts to negotiate with Montalto via an intercom system, he reportedly continued to fire shots within his home. It wasn’t until approximately 3:14 a.m. that Montalto emerged from his residence and surrendered to the authorities.
The Spring City Police Department is leading the investigation into the incident, with Deputy District Attorney Bridget C. Gallagher overseeing the prosecution. Community members with knowledge of the events are encouraged to contact law enforcement to assist in the ongoing investigation.
While this incident has been classified as isolated, it serves as a stark reminder of the potential volatility inherent in situations combining domestic disputes and firearms. Montalto, like all individuals accused of a crime, is presumed innocent until proven guilty through the judicial process.
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