Search for child sexual assault suspect continues in the New Hope area

NEW HOPE, Pa. (WTXF) - Police in Bucks County say their search area has expanded for suspected child sex offender David Allen Hamilton. They are telling bow hunters in the area to use caution if they do run into the suspect.

Fox 29 cameras were rolling as a police car patrols one of the last spots where fugitive David Allen Hamilton Jr. was seen, in the wooded area of Stoney Hill Road and Reeder Road in New Hope.

"Several different cops were coming around the bend just behind the Wawa approaching Stoney Hill," said neighbor Anne McNaron.

McNaron says she also saw helicopters searching by air, after Hamilton went on the run, last seen wearing muddy shorts and a t-shirt.

Hamilton is wanted for alleged sexual offenses against minors. Police say a hunter took a photo after encountering Hamilton in the woods.

Residents were told to stay sheltered for safety. That included area businesses.

"They closed some of the local restaurants as well as ours and we were taken away from any window areas and told to sit in the crew room and just wait it out until they could see that everything was safe," explained Judith Truitt.

On Friday, investigators say a New Hope Borough officer tried to arrest Hamilton after a driver saw him on a bike. Officials say Hamilton attempted to take the officer's gun, but failed, before running into a heavily wooded area. Neighbors have been alarmed since.

"I think that it's super scary. I had no idea that there was a gentleman on the loose in my neighborhood and I think it's good information to know," said Julie Morrison.

Anyone with information about David Hamilton can contact Detective Sergeant Scott at 215-357-1235 ext.244 or at gscott@LSTWP.org.