Coronavirus: Researcher studying COVID-19 killed in Pennsylvania murder-suicide

ROSS TOWNSHIP, Pa. — A researcher studying COVID-19 for the University of Pittsburgh was one of the men killed in a Pennsylvania murder-suicide, authorities said.

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According to WPXI-TV, two men were found dead from apparent gunshot wounds at The Mews of Town North on Elm Court, which is just off McKnight Road, in Ross Township on Saturday.

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The first man was found in his home, while police found the second man dead in his car near that same home. The Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the first person killed as Bing Liu, 37. On Sunday, authorities ruled Liu’s death as a homicide.

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Liu's colleagues described him as a prolific researcher and excellent mentor. According to the university, he was on the verge of making significant findings toward understanding the cellular mechanisms of the novel coronavirus. The university said it will continue the work he started.

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In a statement, the University of Pittsburgh said in part: "Dr. Bing Liu was an outstanding researcher who has earned the respect and appreciation of many colleagues in the field."

The Allegheny County Medical Examiner identified the other man as Hao Gu, 46. Police announced Monday that he appears to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, which investigators believe happened shortly after he shot and killed Liu.

Police are still trying to figure out more about the shooting, including what led to it, but added that the men knew each other and that there is believed to be no further threat to the public.