Homestead man wanted for questioning in borough homicide apprehended

A Homestead man wanted for questioning in connection with a homicide there was taken into custody Friday after he was found hiding in an apartment, police said.

Rahim Thomas, 24, was found in the rafters of a basement at an apartment at 118 W. Eighth Ave. in Homestead following a foot chase, according to police.

County police were in the area investigating a homicide that occurred the day before.

A 20-year-old man was shot several times after he answered the door to his home in the 300 block of E. 16th Avenue.

Thomas was described as a “person of interest” in that case.

Detectives observed Thomas along the 100 block of East 11th Avenue with a gun in his waistband.

“Detectives gave chase,” Homestead police Chief Jeff DeSimone said. “He ended up running into that building and holding up in it. We searched for a good two-and-a-half hours trying to locate him, and finally we did.” Homestead police assisted county investigators with Friday’s search.

Officers used surveillance cameras in the area and inside the building as part of the search.

Thomas is charged with criminal trespass, person not to possess a firearm, flight to avoid apprehension and disorderly conduct.

He was taken to county police headquarters for questioning and then the Allegheny County Jail for arraignment.

County police said no charges have been filed in connection with the homicide.

Anyone with information about the incident should call the Allegheny County Police Tip Line at 833-255-8477. Callers can remain anonymous.