A Pennsylvania man was arrested Wednesday after allegedly firing a BB gun in a crowded area outside a theater featuring a production of "Fiddler on the Roof" in downtown Pittsburgh.

>> Read more trending news

Police said Andre Freeman, 29, of Homewood, was outside the Benedum Center around 7:15 p.m. when he fired multiple times.

A security guard for the theater was able to tackle Freeman and hold him until police could arrive.

A performance of “Fiddler on the Roof” with the same cast earlier this month was halted in Baltimore after a man inside the theater began shouting Nazi slogans.

Freeman is charged with causing or risking a catastrophe, disorderly conduct, discharging a firearm or airgun, carrying a facsimile of a firearm and simple assault.

The Benedum Center and all properties owned by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust have increased security, including adding metal detectors and restricting items that can be brought inside to shows.

“The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is committed to providing a space for a wide range of opinions and ideas. We will not, however, tolerate violence of any kind – be it physical, threats, or hate speech," a statement from the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust said.

About the Author

Keep Reading

President Donald Trump speaks ahead of the signing of the Laken Riley Act in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC on January 29, 2025. (Nathan Posner for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

Credit: Nathan Posner for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Featured

Ingrid Jackson, who bought a car from U.S. Auto Sales, said she was among the customers who had their car disabled by a kill switch system that impacted thousands of buyers across the Southeast who had paid their car loans on time. She is pictured in Barnesville, Ga., where she lives.  (Hyosub Shin / AJC)

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC