Pennsbury HS project faces setbacks, public pushback – Bucks Round-Up – August 5, 2025
Pennsbury High School project faces setbacks, public pushback
Plans to construct a new $269.5 million Pennsbury High School hit a snag as the Falls Township Planning Commission delayed approval due to incomplete documentation and rising public concern. Although the majority of the school would be constructed in Falls Township, a small part of the land sits in Bristol Township, prompting officials there to request formal input. Residents have raised red flags about traffic, early-morning construction noise, water drainage, rooftop heights, and even mosquito risks. The district plans to streamline traffic and improve site drainage, but several neighbors say they were blindsided by a proposed future bus depot. A public meeting is scheduled for September 4 to address these issues before any vote proceeds.
Armed suspect shot by police in road rage incident identified
A Bensalem police officer shot and wounded a 44-year-old Levittown man Saturday evening following a violent road rage incident along Route 13. Police say John Thomas Mathis, already wanted on multiple warrants, was armed and threatening another driver before fleeing on foot. The officer gave verbal commands before firing three shots, hitting Mathis in the back and shoulder. A black handgun was recovered at the scene, and Mathis is in stable condition at Jefferson Torresdale Hospital. Mathis’s record includes aggravated assault, theft, fleeing police, and a prior road rage incident just over a week ago in Bristol Township, where he allegedly used a bat to attack another vehicle after causing two crashes. Despite efforts by prosecutors to revoke his bail last year, Mathis was released under GPS monitoring, which he later removed. The officer involved is on administrative leave while the District Attorney’s Office investigates whether the shooting was justified.
Bucks communities gather for National Night Out
Police departments across Bucks County are hosting National Night Out events tonight, aimed at strengthening community ties. Bristol Borough Police Chief Joe Moors says officers will be stationed behind Snider-Girotti Elementary from 5:30 to 8 p.m. with games, food, law enforcement demonstrations, and free school supplies for kids. In Langhorne, Middletown Township’s celebration marks its tenth year. Chief Joe Bartorilla says the event has become a staple for local families, featuring police K-9 and motorcycle demos, kids’ activities, food trucks, and local government booths at 3 Municipal Way.
Joe LeCompte hosts LeCompte in the Morning on WBCB 1490.
