Suspect 'Tried to Execute' Police Officer in West Philadelphia Ambush: Commissioner

NBC Philadelphia ^ | January 8 | Sara Smith & Steve Beck

[kcvl]

A police captain who was involved in the interrogation of Archer told reporters that the suspect told them he pledges allegiance to the Islamic State terror organization, follows Allah and that he was called upon by his faith to commit the shooting.

Surveillance video, apparently taken from a building or post behind the incident, shows the gunman running into the street and right up the police car. He puts the gun directly into the driver-side window and fires at point-blank range.

Mayor Jim Kenney, who also spoke to reporters Friday afternoon, played down the Islam connection.

“This is a criminal with a stolen gun who tried to kill one of our officers, “ Kenney said. “It has nothing to do with being a Muslim or following the Islamic faith.”

Ross said the weapon was a stolen police gun.

[Deo volente]

The DA had this little irrelevant offering:

DA Seth Williams says "I'm very thankful the officer is alive. This shows us the need for smarter laws when it relates to guns on the street."

[NativeSon]

It’s a darn shame, the area was amazing back in the day... I went to the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy & Science but enjoyed the UofP parties.

[SC_Pete]

I left the area many years ago but still get back now and again. Center City is looking better and even some of the neighborhoods—but it will be a long time before West Philly turns around.