Philadelphia police are currently on the hunt for a suspect linked to the tragic murder of an 88-year-old veteran. The victim, identified as Richard Butler, met a grim fate on March 5th, falling victim to a brazen daylight shooting while seated inside his vehicle.
The incident unfolded around 1:35 p.m. in the 100 block of North Dewey Street, as per statements issued by law enforcement officials.
According to reports from FOX 29 Philadelphia, Butler was inside his SUV when an assailant approached, unleashing a barrage of gunfire that struck him twice in the chest. Despite efforts to save him, Butler succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
Philadelphia Police Seek Suspect in Daylight Killing of 88-Year-Old Veteran (Credits: FOX 29)
Police, in efforts to bring justice to the victim and closure to his loved ones, have released surveillance footage capturing the suspect. The footage depicts an individual clad in a gray hoodie and black shorts over black tights. Additionally, it shows the suspect traveling in a silver 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, noteworthy for its dark-tinted windows, a dented front passenger side panel, and a Pennsylvania license plate.
Further surveillance footage has captured the silver Altima, believed to be the getaway vehicle, passing beneath the EL along Market Street in West Philadelphia.
Described as armed and dangerous, the suspect allegedly disembarked from the vehicle, lying in wait for Butler as he dropped off his girlfriend on Dewey Street’s corner. It was then that the assailant approached Butler’s vehicle and fired five shots, resulting in the tragic loss of life.
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with pertinent information regarding the shooting or the suspect’s identity to come forward. A reward of $20,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrator.
