Officer Killed in North Philly Shooting
UPDATE, 8:15 p.m.: Mayor Nutter, Commissioner Ramsey, and D.A. Seth Williams finished a press conference at 13th and Ontario streets a short while ago (video from Fox29 below). Officer Robert Wilson III, an eight-year veteran of the force working out of the 22nd District, died at 6:25 p.m. from injuries sustained after exchanging gunfire at close range with two men attempting to rob a GameStop in North Philadelphia. Officer Damian Stephenson, Wilson’s partner, and other officers responding to the shooting were able to apprehend the two suspects, who have yet to be named.
Office Wilson is survived by two children, ages nine and one.
Governor Tom Wolf issued the following statement:
“My deepest condolences are with Officer Robert Wilson’s family tonight and his colleagues at the Philadelphia Police Department, especially the officers of the 22nd District. This senseless act is devastating and a stark reminder of the danger faced everyday by our brave men and women in uniform. Across Pennsylvania, members of law enforcement and our first responders put their lives on the line to protect our families and our communities. We can never forget their selfless service and sacrifice.”
UPDATE, 6:23 p.m.: The Inquirer is reporting the officer, identified as Robert Wilson, has died.
Update: Officer Robert Wilson has died after being shot at a GameStop store in North Philadelphia. http://t.co/XqxMT9Cv46
— Philadelphia Inquirer Politics (@PoliticsINQ) March 5, 2015
https://twitter.com/KennethMoton/status/573626815018856448
UPDATE: Sources: 22nd dist officer was hit & partner opened fire hitting suspect. That man & 2nd suspect taken into custody @6abc
— Kenneth Moton (@KennethMoton) March 5, 2015
Terrible loss for the PPD. Thanks to Temple Hospital for doing their best. Thank you, Philadelphia, for the support.
— Joseph Murray (@PPDJoeMurray) March 5, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with @phillypolice and the officer's family after this senseless tragedy today. Rest in peace.
— Montco Sheriff (@MontCoPASheriff) March 5, 2015
[Original 5:56 p.m.] Philadelphia Police are confirming that an officer was shot in an incident just before 5 p.m. at the GameStop at 2101 West Lehigh Avenue.
Prayers for our officer – Philadelphia's officer – who was shot while protecting all of us.
— Philadelphia Police Department (@PhillyPolice) March 5, 2015
The unidentified male officer was “down and unresponsive” after being shot in the head and was taken to Temple University Hospital where he is listed in critical condition. Officer Leeloni Palmiero, a spokeswoman, said the department is not sure at this time what led up to the incident.
Palmiero confirms that two suspects are in custody — one of whom was also shot, and who has been taken to Einstein Medical Center in unknown condition.
Prayers for #22ndPoliceDistrict Officer!
— P/O Mike Duffy (@PPDMikeDuffy) March 5, 2015
Another angle from the scene. Early reports is that officer was responding to the robbery. pic.twitter.com/OFJNNUuZqM
— Vinny Vella (@Vellastrations) March 5, 2015
It's no joke out here. There are bad men in this world. We will keep fighting them though. And we will keep winning. @PhillyPolice
— Joseph Murray (@PPDJoeMurray) March 5, 2015
More to come on this story.
