Blair County attorneys are seeking the dismissal of a federal civil rights lawsuit filed by the estate of Rhonda Russell, a corrections officer fatally shot in 2021. Defense filings argue that the accidental shooting by Altoona Police Sergeant George Bistline was an “unforeseeable and independent act,” absolving the county of legal liability. This follows a recommendation by Magistrate Judge Maureen Kelly to dismiss most claims against the City of Altoona, and Blair County, ruling that inmate violence is an “inherent risk” of the profession rather than a constitutional violation. While the judge recommended dismissing the municipal claims, she suggested allowing a due-process claim against Sgt. Bistline’s estate to proceed, citing questions over whether he had sufficient time to negotiate before firing. The 2021 tragedy occurred at the Blair County Courthouse when inmate Christopher Aikens took Russell hostage. Sgt. Bistline intervened, but his shot, intended for Aikens, struck and killed Russell. Aikens is currently serving a life sentence for second-degree murder.
