Three Arrested on Weapons Charges in Altoona

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Three individuals from Altoona, Pennsylvania were arrested last Friday following a state parole home inspection that uncovered an arsenal of firearms and narcotics. Damien Pierce, 52, was undergoing a routine inspection by state parole agents at his residence while under active supervision, during which agents found numerous guns, ammunition, and 35 grams of marijuana. Both Pierce and another person present, Elijah Washington, 42, were identified as felons and are not permitted to possess firearms due to prior convictions. They now face multiple felony charges and have been placed in the Blair County Prison in lieu of bail. A third person, Natalie Pierce, 41, was also at the residence and will be charged with several misdemeanors.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of enforcing gun laws and monitoring parolees, especially those with prior felony convictions. Altoona has seen a rise in gun violence and drug-related crimes in recent years, putting pressure on law enforcement to crack down on illegal firearms and narcotics in the community.

The details

During the parole inspection at Damien Pierce's residence, state agents found numerous firearms, ammunition, and 35 grams of marijuana. Both Pierce and Elijah Washington were identified as felons who are prohibited from possessing guns due to their criminal histories. The two men now face multiple felony charges including illegal firearm possession and drug offenses. A third individual, Natalie Pierce, was also present at the home and will be charged with several misdemeanors.

• The arrests occurred on Friday, February 21, 2026.

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to grant bail for Damien Pierce and Elijah Washington.