A 35-year-old Tyrone man was arrested after a burglary in the 500 block of 19th Street in Altoona yesterday, shortly before 7 p.m.
According to a press release from the Altoona Police Department, officers went to an apartment building to investigate a physical altercation. The suspect had left the scene on foot.
Investigating officers learned Gary Blair Smith, Jr., 753 Washington Ave., Tyrone had gone to the Altoona apartment looking for his sister. Police said the woman and the people living at the apartment were friends.
According to police, Smith learned the woman was not at the apartment. At that point, he allegedly demanded money from those in the apartment. They told Smith “no” and shut the door.
Police said Smith allegedly kicked the door, and a man in the apartment opened the door and told Smith to leave the premises while he attempted to shut the door again.
Police allege Smith then kicked the door before it could be closed and forced his way into the apartment. The man at the door was knocked backwards while he was holding an 11-month-old baby. The child fell to the floor.
According to the police, Smith entered the apartment and assaulted the man and then fled on foot. The 39-year-old victim suffered a three-inch laceration to his left eye and was transported to the Altoona Regional Medical Center where he was treated for his injuries, which required sutures. Police said the baby was not hurt in the incident.
Officers located Smith about three blocks from the apartment and he was taken into custody without incident.
The press release noted the Blair County Adult Probation and Parole office was supervising Smith. A parole detainer was placed on him and he was taken to Blair County Prison.
Smith was charged with burglary, criminal trespass, recklessly endangering another person, simple assault and harassment.
He was arraigned last night before Magisterial District Judge Jeffrey Auker. The judge’s office said Smith’s bail was set at $5,000, 10 percent. A preliminary hearing was scheduled for 9 a.m. on May 24 before Magisterial District Judge Joseph Moran. Smith was transported back to Blair County Prison after his arraignment.
