Charges Waived Against Todd Wiley in Erie Shooting
The case involving the death of Thomas Heckathorn has moved forward to the Court of Common Pleas.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Violence
The Erie County District Attorney's Office has waived all charges against 30-year-old Todd Wiley. Wiley was accused in the July 14 shooting that resulted in the death of 58-year-old Thomas Heckathorn.
Why it matters
The waiver of charges marks a significant procedural shift in the legal proceedings following the fatal July shooting. The case will now proceed to the Court of Common Pleas for further adjudication.
Official court filings confirm that charges were waived in the case involving 30-year-old Todd Wiley. The investigation follows the discovery of 14 shell casings at the scene and a rifle with two drum magazines found at the suspect's residence.
The players
Todd Wiley
He is the 30-year-old suspect who was taken into custody following the July shooting incident.
Thomas Heckathorn
He was the 58-year-old victim who died from injuries sustained during the July 14 shooting.
Erie County District Attorney's Office
This is the local legal authority responsible for managing the prosecution and filing of charges in the case.
Court of Common Pleas
This judicial body is the venue where the legal proceedings for the criminal case will now continue.
The details
The incident occurred in the 2900 block of Poplar Street, where Wiley allegedly stopped his silver sedan and fired 14 rounds at Thomas Heckathorn. Police later arrested Wiley near West 18th and Chestnut streets after finding evidence, including a rifle and drum magazines, at his home.
Timeline
July 14, 2026: The shooting took place in the 2900 block of Poplar Street.
July 17, 2026: Police took Todd Wiley into custody near West 18th and Chestnut streets.
August 8, 2026: Victim Thomas Heckathorn succumbed to his injuries.
October 12, 2026: Charges were waived and the case moved to the Court of Common Pleas.
Legal Context
The waiver of charges reflects the procedural outcome typical of the Pennsylvania preliminary hearing process. This stage ensures that evidence meets the threshold required for the case to proceed to the Court of Common Pleas.
Residents in the area near the 2900 block of Poplar Street and the West 18th and Chestnut area may see continued legal activity as the case moves forward. The public should remain aware that official proceedings are ongoing within the local court system.
The takeaway
The transition of this case to a higher court highlights the complexity of legal investigations involving firearms. Residents are reminded to cooperate with local authorities if they have information regarding pending criminal matters.
Further reading
For more information on similar public safety issues, see local reports on Violence.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WJET-TV.
