Philadelphia police officer shot during car chase, suspect dies

A Highway Patrol officer was shot by a suspect following a pursuit in North Philadelphia on Tuesday.

The suspect opened fire on officers as they attempted to stop his vehicle. According to Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel, the incident occurred at 8:53 p.m. on the 200 block of Lehigh Avenue when officers from the 39th Police District tried to pull the suspect over.

The suspect attempted to flee but crashed two blocks away, near North 23rd Street. Several Highway Patrol officers arrived at the scene, where they encountered gunfire.

“They struck the windshield of the highway vehicle and then struck my officer in his right hand. We believe, based on his jacket, that he was hit by another bullet that did not penetrate,” Bethel told reporters.

Injured Officer Expected to Recover

The wounded officer was transported to Temple University Hospital, where he is recovering well and is expected to be discharged soon. His identity has not been disclosed, but he has served in the police force since 2016.

“I’m really glad to report that our officer is doing well. He has close to 10 years on the job,” Bethel added.

Commissioner Bethel expressed relief that the officer, a father to a one-year-old, survived the attack. “We’re grateful tonight that our multiple officers came under fire, and fortunately, we are here to talk about a young man who has a 1-year-old child,” he said.