Blair

Lakemont Park Leaseholder Takes Legal Action Against Blair County Officials Over Dispute

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Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania — The leaseholder of Lakemont Park has initiated legal action against Blair County and its Board of Commissioners, alleging violations related to the park’s operation. The lawsuit, filed in the Blair County Court of Common Pleas, comes amid ongoing disputes about the lease agreement and operational issues affecting the historic amusement park. The plaintiff, who has managed the park for several seasons, claims that the county has failed to adhere to the terms of their contract, which has impeded the park’s functioning. This legal dispute highlights broader tensions involving local governance and private … Read more

Blair County Mourns Loss of Esteemed Judge Fred B. Miller after Battle with Cancer

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HOLLIDAYSBURG, Pa. — Blair County mourns the loss of Judge Fred B. Miller, who passed away on Sunday night at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore following a brief illness. Judge Miller, 54, held a critical role in the legal community, having served as a district judge in the Tyrone area for over two decades before being elected to the county’s judicial bench just last year. Judge Miller succumbed to cancer, which was diagnosed after he broke his femur and underwent surgery. According to close associates, despite experiencing pain, the severity of his illness came as … Read more

Blair County Man Faces Murder Charge After Neighbor’s Shooting, Some Charges Dropped

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BLAIR COUNTY, Pa. — In a recent courtroom development, local authorities have decided to dismiss specific charges against David Jenkins, a Blair County resident, who is accused of the fatal shooting of his neighbor, Zachary Smola, earlier in the month. During a preliminary hearing that took place on Thursday, details of the case emerged, illustrating a complex narrative that involves an alleged confrontation followed by the tragic death of Smola. David Jenkins, who appeared before the court, had reportedly surrendered to state police, admitting his role in the violent incident on Longview Drive in Allegheny … Read more

Historic Verdict: Blair County Man Sentenced to Over Two Decades for Human Trafficking and Rape of a Minor

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HOLLIDAYSBURG, Pa. — In a landmark case for Blair County, a Pennsylvania man has been sentenced to a minimum of 21 years in prison following his conviction in the area’s first human trafficking jury trial. The decision was finalized in a local court on Friday, marking a significant moment in the county’s legal history. Donald Hetrick, 40, of Alexandria, received a sentence that could extend up to 47 years after being found guilty of multiple charges, including raping an unconscious 14-year-old girl. The incident, which occurred in 2021 at an Altoona motel room, led to … Read more