After the shooting death of Temple University Police Officer, an 18-year old man faces murder charges.
Following a Saturday night robbery, Miles Pfeffer is alleged to have shot Officer Christopher Fitzgerald (31 years old) in the head. The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that he also tried to rob Fitzgerald from his gun and took his pockets while he lay down.
He faces charges of murder, the murder a law enforcement officer and robbery.
According to the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, Pfeffer was involved with an armed carjacking following Fitzgerald’s alleged shooting.
“We are already working with [Philadelphia Police] in order to bring the guilty parties to justice,” tweeted Larry Krasner, District Attorney. For further information, Krasner’s Office and Philadelphia Police Department were contacted.
According to the Bucks County District Attorney’s Office, Pfeffer was taken into custody at his Buckingham Township residence in the 2300 block Quarry Road shortly after 7 AM on Sunday.
The office stated in a news release that the police used the handcuffs of the fallen officer to place the suspect under arrest.
Sources told CBS Philadelphia that multiple weapons were taken from Pfeffer’s home.
His mother lives in the residence. The station reported that she was also taken into custody to be questioned.
According to local police sources, Pfeffer was a known suspect in nuisance crimes.
According to neighbors, the family moved in around four years ago. Police have also been seen at the home several times.
In the meantime, a GoFundMe page was launched by Temple University Police Association to raise more than $160,000 for Fitzgerald’s family. It took just 14 hours.
A post on the page states that Officer Fitzgerald was a loving husband and father, friend and public servant, whose devotion to his family was unmatched.
“Officer Fitzgerald loved his job as a police officer. He will be remembered for his courage in fighting crime and compassion for the community.
Officials at Temple University stated that Fitzgerald was a member of the Temple University Police force since October 2021.
Jennifer Griffin, vice president of public safety at the university, released a statement saying that Officer Fitzgerald died to defend and serve this community.
“This loss leaves a huge hole in our hearts. He was a father and husband, a son, a coworker, and a friend.
Jason Wingard, the university president, stated that the shooting was a “gut-wrenching reminder” of the police officers’ bravery and sacrifices for students, faculty, staff, and the community.
He said, “There are no words that can explain this tragedy.” It tears at our senses of safety and community. This unspeakable loss is felt by all of us.”
“Epidemic of Violence”
Wingard noted, however, that this happened as Philadelphia and the country dealt with an “unprecedented epidemic of violence.”
Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenny directed that the flags of the city be reduced to half-staff to honor Fitzgerald.
Kenney stated that he was deeply shocked by the passing of Officer Christopher Fitzgerald. He also expressed outrage at the city’s inhumane violence. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Officer Fitzgerald’s loved ones, family members, and coworkers. We are thankful for his service, but we are heartbroken by the loss.
Kenney stated that reducing gun violence was “my administration’s top priority” and that the government will continue to work with its partners to fight the violence that plagues communities across the country.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro was elected governor of Pennsylvania last month. He wrote Tweet that he’s “devastated” for the family “deceased” of Temple University police officer killed in the line-of-duty while “bravely serving his local community”.
Shapiro said, “We’re sending prayers for his loved ones, Temple Police and the entire @TempleUniv Community. His memory will be a blessing.
