A bizarre domestic dispute allegedly sparked by an argument over hickeys has resulted in assault and harassment charges for a Punxsutawney couple, according to the Punxsutawney Borough Police Department.
Court documents reveal that Bryan R. Buffington, 39, of Homer City, and Elise Janine Mittica, 39, of Punxsutawney, are both facing misdemeanor and summary charges related to a July 27 altercation on West Mahoning Street in Punxsutawney Borough, Jefferson County.
Early-Morning Disturbance Escalates
Around 3:46 a.m., police responded to reports of a domestic incident involving a woman armed with a gun and hiding between houses.
When officers arrived, they found Mittica crying on a porch. She immediately turned over a gun and a knife. Mittica told police the argument began when Buffington became angry over hickeys she gave him while they were in bed. She said she went downstairs to sleep on the couch, but Buffington followed and pushed her, leaving a visible mark on her neck.
Mittica reportedly admitted to fighting back, striking Buffington and leaving a mark near his eye. She also told officers she grabbed a kitchen knife and demanded that Buffington leave—which he did. Afterward, she said she retrieved a firearm and hid between two houses.
Conflicting Accounts
Buffington, in a separate interview, denied touching or pushing Mittica. He told police that after having sex, Mittica went to the couch. When he asked her to return to bed, he claimed she suddenly “went batsh** crazy” and began hitting him. He confirmed that she pulled a knife and ordered him to leave. He said he complied but never saw a gun during the encounter.
Charges Filed
Both Buffington and Mittica are charged with:
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Simple Assault (Misdemeanor 2)
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Harassment – Subject Other to Physical Contact (Summary)
They were arraigned on July 27 and each released on $10,000 unsecured bail.
Their preliminary hearings are scheduled for September 9 before Magisterial District Judge Jacqueline J. Mizerock.
