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Uniontown man sought in assault

By Steve Ferris 2 min read

Uniontown police obtained an arrest warrant for Roy Friend, 34, of 88 Walnut St., Uniontown, for allegedly beating Russell Dwayne Pierce, 44, of Uniontown with a crutch, causing serious injuries early Tuesday. Pierce of 123 N. Gallatin Ave. was initially taken to Uniontown Hospital following the 3 a.m. incident, but was flown to UPMC, where he is in critical condition, Det. Donald Gmitter said.

Pierce was found lying in a fetal position on North Gallatin Avenue in front of the American Legion. He was not responsive, had severe head trauma and was bleeding uncontrollably, police said.

While police were at the scene, they saw Friend walk behind the Legion. Friend told officers that Pierce came to his house and started a fight.

He said he hit Pierce several times with his fists and crutches, and Pierce fled, according to an affidavit of probable cause.

However, a witness told police later that Friend admitted that he beat up Pierce outside of his residence while another man was present. The witness said Friend admitted to punching Pierce and then beating him with crutches.

The warrant charges Friend with aggravated assault, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person and harassment.

Magisterial District Justice Mark Blair issued the warrant for Friend.

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