Michael J. Bacha Obituary, Hampshire County Shooting; 71-Year-Old Killed in Fatal Shooting Incident
The Hampshire County community is mourning the tragic death of 71-year-old Michael J. Bacha, whose life was taken in a fatal shooting on May 13, 2026, in the Slanesville area. The devastating incident has left family members, friends, neighbors, and residents throughout the rural community grieving and searching for answers following a tragedy that unfolded in what is normally considered a quiet and peaceful area.
According to the Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office, emergency dispatchers received a 911 call at approximately 1:58 p.m. reporting that a man had been found suffering from gunshot wounds outside a residence located off Redstone Mountain Court near Spring Gap Road. Deputies responded to the scene alongside troopers from the West Virginia State Police.
When authorities arrived, they discovered Michael J. Bacha lying face down outside the residence. Investigators later determined that he had been deceased for several hours before a neighbor discovered him and contacted emergency services.
As investigators began examining the scene, the case quickly escalated into a large-scale manhunt after authorities learned that the suspect had reportedly fled the area on a four-wheeler into the heavily wooded terrain surrounding the property. Law enforcement identified the suspect as 83-year-old Robert Allen Shartzer, who authorities believed remained armed with a handgun during the search.
Due to the rugged landscape and dense foliage throughout the area, multiple agencies assisted in the operation. Search efforts involved air support from the Maryland State Police Trooper 5 medevac crew, K-9 teams from the Allegany County Sheriff’s Office, and drone units operated by the Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators spent several hours conducting coordinated searches through difficult terrain as authorities worked to locate the suspect safely.
Officials stated that at approximately 7:22 p.m., deputies located Robert Allen Shartzer riding a four-wheeler along an old logging road during a UTV-assisted search operation. Authorities took him into custody without incident. Investigators also recovered a loaded Glock .40 caliber handgun from a storage compartment attached to the vehicle. According to officials, Shartzer allegedly acknowledged that the firearm recovered was the weapon used during the shooting.
During the investigation, authorities reported that Shartzer told investigators Michael Bacha had arrived at his residence earlier that morning to assist him with transportation to an eye appointment. Officials stated that Bacha had also reportedly helped him with transportation related to medical needs the previous day. Investigators allege that an argument developed between the two men following ongoing disagreements, leading Shartzer to retrieve the handgun and shoot Bacha multiple times outside the home.
Authorities believe the fatal shot was fired at close range. Investigators further confirmed that Michael J. Bacha was unarmed at the time of the shooting, and officials stated there was no evidence indicating that a physical altercation occurred before the gunfire erupted.
The tragic death of Michael J. Bacha has left the Slanesville community shaken, as loved ones and residents reflect on the heartbreaking circumstances surrounding a life lost in an act of violence. Friends and neighbors are remembering him as a man whose willingness to assist others ultimately placed him in a devastating situation no one could have anticipated.
As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to release additional information regarding charges and court proceedings connected to the case. In the meantime, the community continues mourning the loss of a man remembered for his kindness and willingness to help others in times of need.
May Michael J. Bacha rest in peace, and may his loved ones find strength and comfort during this incredibly painful time.