Police in Bucks County have arrested a teen suspect in the killing of a Temple University police officer on Saturday near the campus in Philadelphia. At approximately 7 a.m. on Sunday morning, an unidentified 18-year-old white man was taken into custody at a family home in Buckingham Township in relation to the shooting. Temple University’s police association confirmed on Twitter that there had been an apprehension.
Jennifer Griffin, Temple University’s vice president for public safety, said in a statement: “Earlier this morning, an 18-year-old person of interest was taken into custody in connection with last night’s tragic murder of a Temple University Police Officer.” Griffin identified the officer as Christopher David Fitzgerald, who was hired by the university in October 2021. Fitzgerald was shot while on duty and was pronounced dead at the Temple University Hospital. Griffin said: “Officer Fitzgerald gave his life to selflessly serve and defend this community. The courage and bravery he displayed highlights the day-to-day sacrifice made by our Temple University Police Officers to keep our community safe. This loss leaves an enormous hole in all of our hearts. He was a father, a husband, a son, a colleague, and a friend.”
Temple University president Jason Wingard said in a statement that Fitzgerald was shot while trying to apprehend a robbery suspect at 1700 W. Montgomery Avenue. The suspect fled the scene, according to Wingard, adding: “This loss comes at a time when gun violence continues its horrific impact on our city and our country. Philadelphia and the nation are dealing with an unprecedented epidemic of violence, and the tragedy that took place tonight is a gut-wrenching reminder of our police officers’ daily bravery and sacrifices to protect our students, faculty, staff and community.”
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