ABOUT CHIEF MCINTIRE
On January 2, 2023, Chief Justin McIntire of the Brackenridge Borough Police Department began his 2:00–10:00 PM shift as he had done many times before. Shortly after leaving home, he responded to a call to assist neighboring departments in the search for a fugitive. What began as a routine call turned into a lengthy and intense manhunt. Tragically, Chief McIntire was ambushed on Third Avenue in Brackenridge—just four houses down from where he had grown up.
Chief McIntire was more than a dedicated officer—he was a family man. A loving husband, father, son, brother, and uncle, he spent his entire life in the community he served. He attended Fairmount Elementary, Highlands Middle School, and graduated from Highlands Senior High School before completing training at the Allegheny County Police Academy.
Justin began his career working part-time with several local departments before becoming a full-time officer in Brackenridge. Over the years, he rose through the ranks—from patrolman to sergeant, and eventually, to chief. He devoted 26 years to law enforcement, including his final four as Chief of Police.
In the wake of his passing, Scott Piroch of Evangel Heights Church approached the McIntire family with an idea: to honor Justin’s legacy with an annual event. Thus, the Chief McIntire Thunder Run was born. For nearly three years now, police officers, first responders, veterans, bikers, and supporters from across the globe have come together to pay tribute. Proceeds from the event have supported local causes, including the Pioneer Hose Fire Department, and Harrison Township Police Department.
