CNBNews

PHILADELPHIA, PA (September 27, 2023) – The Philadelphia Police Department is actively responding to a series of  incidents of looting that occurred in the Center City area earlier this evening. The events unfolded on 9/26/23 shortly before 8:00 PM, prompting swift and coordinated action by law enforcement.

Shortly before 8:00 PM, an increased presence of juveniles was observed roaming in the Center City business corridor of the 9th District. In a proactive measure, officers from the 9th District stopped a group of males dressed in black attire and wearing masks at the intersection of 17th and Chestnut Streets. As officers were engaging with these individuals, reports began to flood in from citizens and 911 calls, alerting authorities to looting taking place at the Foot Locker located at 15XX Chestnut Street.

Responding promptly to the call, officers arrived at the Foot Locker at 7:58 PM, only to discover that the store had been ransacked in a coordinated attack. A number of juveniles fled the scene, but at least one adult was arrested.

Subsequent incidents of looting were reported in quick succession. At 8:12 PM, officers responded to a call of looting at Lululemon, located at 17XX Walnut Street. In this case, officers successfully apprehended multiple individuals involved in the looting.

Shortly thereafter, at 8:18 PM, a radio call reported looting at the Apple Store, situated at 16XX Walnut Street. No arrests were made at this time in connection with this incident. The store sustained losses in terms of phones and tablets, although numerous stolen items have since been recovered.

In response to these incidents and intelligence gathered from social media, law enforcement took proactive steps to secure the area. Walnut Street, between 1400 and 1800 blocks, was locked down at 8:40 PM, followed by the lockdown of Chestnut Street, between 1400 and 1800 blocks, at 9:10 PM. These measures were taken to ensure the safety of both the public and property within the affected areas.

In addition, the PPD is currently responding to several reports of property damage and thefts throughout the city.

The Philadelphia Police Department is committed to maintaining public safety and order. We are actively investigating these incidents and working diligently to identify and apprehend those responsible for these unlawful acts. We appreciate the cooperation of our community and urge anyone with information related to these incidents to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigations.

We want to thank our dedicated officers who swiftly responded to these incidents, as well as our community members who continue to support law enforcement efforts to keep Philadelphia safe.