David J. Gibbs Allentown, PA Shooting – The Allentown community is mourning the tragic loss of David J. Gibbs, 34, who was fatally shot early Friday morning, December 19, 2025, in a violent incident at Big Woody’s restaurant and bar, located at 1302 Hanover Avenue. Authorities responded swiftly to the scene following reports of gunfire that erupted during what investigators described as a fight that escalated inside the establishment.
According to the Allentown Police Department, the shooting occurred around 1:30 a.m. Emergency responders transported Gibbs to Lehigh Valley Hospital–Muhlenberg, where he was pronounced dead at 2:40 a.m. Two other men were also struck by gunfire during the incident. One of the injured victims was taken to the hospital via ambulance, while the other arrived in a private vehicle. Both men are reported to be in stable condition and are expected to recover from their injuries.
Lehigh County Coroner Daniel Buglio officially ruled Gibbs’ death a homicide caused by gunshot wounds. An autopsy is scheduled for Monday, December 22, 2025, to provide further details on the cause of death. The investigation into this violent incident is ongoing.
The Allentown Police Department, in partnership with the Lehigh County Homicide Task Force, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. No suspects have been publicly identified or apprehended as of Friday afternoon. Authorities emphasized that the public is not facing any immediate danger.
This incident marks the second fatal shooting at the Big Woody’s location in recent years. A previous shooting occurred in the restaurant’s parking lot in February 2022, highlighting a concerning pattern of violence at this venue. Police are urging anyone with information about the latest shooting to come forward to assist in the investigation.
Members of the public can contact the Allentown Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 610-437-7721 or the complaint desk at 610-437-7753. Anonymous tips may be submitted through the department’s official website or via Tip411 on the Allentown Police Facebook page.
Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the events at Big Woody’s or has information that could help identify those responsible to report it promptly. Law enforcement officials stressed that community cooperation is crucial in bringing those involved to justice and preventing future tragedies.
The Allentown community is left grappling with yet another senseless act of violence, as friends, family, and neighbors remember David J. Gibbs and hope for answers in the ongoing investigation.
