A man trying to break into a Dormont home on Sunday morning was confronted by the resident and — during the ensuing scuffle — was hit in the head by a gun and narrowly escaped being shot before running away,, according to police.

Allegheny County police said they are looking for Joel Hatfield, 28, who they said was armed with a knife when, around 8:45 a.m., he forced his way into a home in the 1500 block of Kelton Avenue. The man living at the home had a gun and struck Hatfield on the head. During the fight, a shot also was fired.

Police said Hatfield is homeless but frequents the Dormont area. He is 5 feet 10 inches and weights approximately 160 pounds. He was last seen wearing a blue and white hooded sweatshirt and may have a laceration on his head.

Based on witness accounts, police said, Hatfield may be with two other people who were hiding outside the home during the incident and fled with Hatfield.

Anyone sighting Hatfield should call 911 immediately. Anyone with information concerning this incident is asked to call the Allegheny County Police Tipline at 1-833-ALL-TIPS (1-833-255-8477). Callers can remain anonymous.

First Published: December 22, 2019, 9:25 p.m.