Police ID Rittenhouse Stabbing Victim, Suspect

Steven E. Simminger has been charged in the murder of Colin McGovern.

Colin McGovern, a Bucks County native who went to Council Rock High School South, has been identified as the victim of the fatal stabbing that unfolded early Sunday in Rittenhouse Square.

The 24-year-old starred as a wide receiver on Council Rock’s football team before graduating in 2009.

McGovern’s Facebook page offers a glimpse of a life that was filled with family and friends.

A number of videos posted during the last few years show McGovern clutching a sunburst acoustic guitar, working his way through covers of Bob Marley and Green Day, or strumming along while a friend sings.

McGovern’s family could not be reached for comment. But those who knew him reacted to the unexpected news of his slaying on social media. 

“I have no words. The level of disregard for human life is frightening today,” one friend wrote on Twitter on Sunday night. “I’m praying for the McGovern Family. RIP Colin.”

“Rest in Peace Colin McGovern,” wrote another.

Philadelphia police said McGovern was stabbed in the stomach about 3 a.m. in front of a condominium building at 1830 Rittenhouse, after a man in a blue New Jersey Devils hat, who police have identified as Steven E. Simminger, approached McGovern and three others. Confirming earlier reports, police say McGovern and a friend exchanged words with Simminger about his cap, and the verbal altercation turned physical.

McGovern died from his injuries a short while later at Hahnemann University Hospital. Homicide investigators have charged Simminger, 40, of Media, with murder and other offenses.

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