Pennsylvania Man Accused of Hiring Hitman to Kill Ex-Girlfriend and Two Others

Suspect allegedly offered $5,000 to murder three people, including his former partner and her new dates

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Eric Berkowitz, a 41-year-old Pennsylvania resident, has been charged with criminal solicitation for murder, attempted murder, and recklessly endangering another person after allegedly offering $5,000 to a man to kill his ex-girlfriend and two men she had dated since their seven-year relationship ended.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious threat of domestic violence and the lengths some perpetrators will go to in order to harm their former partners. It also underscores the importance of reporting suspicious activity to authorities, as the intended victim's new acquaintance played a crucial role in preventing the alleged murder plot.

The details

According to prosecutors, Berkowitz approached a man named Steven Luker and asked him to murder his ex-girlfriend and two of her new romantic interests. Berkowitz allegedly provided Luker with a Mac 11 firearm, a burner phone, and $5,000 to carry out the killings. Luker, however, went to the police and worked with them to record a conversation in which Berkowitz confirmed the plan. When Berkowitz exited his home to meet Luker, he was arrested and found to be carrying a loaded firearm, cocaine, and cash.

  • On Tuesday, Berkowitz approached Luker and made the murder-for-hire offer.
  • The following day, as Berkowitz was leaving his home to meet Luker, he was arrested by police.

The players

Eric Berkowitz

A 41-year-old Pennsylvania resident accused of attempting to hire someone to kill his ex-girlfriend and two of her new romantic interests.

Steven Luker

The man Berkowitz allegedly approached and offered $5,000 to murder three people, including Berkowitz's ex-girlfriend. Luker reported Berkowitz's scheme to the police.

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What they’re saying

“I'd like to commend Mr. Luker for immediately contacting police after he was approached by the defendant to participate in this murder scheme. He ultimately saved the lives of three innocent people.”

— Kevin Steele, Montgomery County District Attorney (lawandcrime.com)

What’s next

Berkowitz has a preliminary hearing scheduled for February 20th, where a judge will determine if there is enough evidence to proceed with the charges against him.

The takeaway

This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of reporting suspicious activity to the authorities. By coming forward, the intended victim's acquaintance played a crucial role in preventing a tragic outcome and potentially saving multiple lives.