Pittsburgh, PA – An Allegheny County fugitive who authorities say had previously evaded arrest by hiding beneath attic insulation is back in custody after detectives located him concealed beneath a basement stairwell at a Pittsburgh residence.
According to the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Kevin M. Kraus announced that 32-year-old Davon James was arrested Thursday after detectives received information that he was inside a residence on Wynoka Street in Pittsburgh.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, James was declared a fugitive earlier this month after a bench warrant was issued for an alleged probation violation related to a previous firearms conviction. Authorities also said he had an active warrant issued by the City of Pittsburgh in connection with an alleged strangulation charge stemming from a domestic violence incident on July 2, 2025, Wednesday.
Detectives initially searched a first-floor apartment after receiving permission from the occupants but were unable to locate James. Investigators then searched a common basement area, where they noticed a cluttered space beneath the stairs. According to the Sheriff’s Office, detectives observed an arm protruding from beneath a television set and ordered the individual to come out.
Authorities said James complied with commands, was taken into custody without incident, and transported to the Allegheny County Jail.
Sheriff’s officials noted this was the second time this year James had allegedly attempted to hide from deputies, referencing an earlier arrest in which he was found concealed beneath attic insulation.
