73-Year-Old Man Shot and Killed by Philadelphia Police Officers; Investigation On Going
Friday, January 19, 2024
PHILADELPHIA, PA (January 19, 2024)(CNBNews)–A 73-year-old man was shot and killed following a standoff and exchange of gunfire with Philadelphia Police officers early Wednesday morning.
At approximately 4:56 a.m. on January 17, 2024, a Philadelphia police officer was dispatched to the 7800 block of E. Roosevelt Boulevard for a possible vehicle crash. Unable to locate a crash but observing a truck parked on Borbeck Avenue with its horn steadily sounding, the officer approached and made contact with the 73-year-old driver (later identified as Lawrence Packard of Jenkintown, PA). After the officer determined no assistance was needed, he began to leave the location. He then heard two gunshots coming from the direction of the truck.
Approaching the truck again, the officer observed a firearm in Packard’s hand and retreated while calling for additional officers. Responding officers declared a barricade, established a perimeter, and called for SWAT assistance. During the barricade incident, Packard fired in the direction of officers while still seated in the truck.
Packard then shot at responding SWAT Lieutenant William Schmid and SWAT Officer Patrick Saba who arrived on the scene. Lt. Schmid and Officer Saba returned fire, fatally wounding Packard.
No officers were injured.
Lt. William Schmid is 42 years old and a 21-year veteran assigned to SWAT.
Officer Patrick Saba is 38 years old and a 17-year veteran assigned to SWAT.
Both discharging officers have been placed on administrative duty pending the outcome of the internal affairs and officer-involved shooting investigations.
The initial responding officer's body-worn camera was activated during the incident but did not capture the shooting itself.
press release
NOTE: The matter is still under investigation, and the statement above is subject to change.