Man connected to Melissa Barto homicide wanted for attacking woman

BUTLER, Pa. — A man on the run who is connected to the Melissa Barto homicide case is wanted for attacking a woman, according to police.

Butler City Police said James Earl Howard-George was involved in the assault in the area of Pullman Park and Pillow Street around 8:30 p.m. Monday night.

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He ran once officers showed up, leaving behind a backpack with a loaded .22 caliber pistol inside. He is wanted on charges of possession of a firearm, carrying a firearm without a license and resisting arrest.

Police said Howard-George was recently released on time served and was on probation in connection with the Melissa Barto homicide. Melissa Barto, known as Missy, was shot and killed by her boyfriend who then enlisted friends to help burn her body, according to investigators.

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