Man Charged with Attempted Murder After Traffic Stop Turns Violent
A 36-year-old man is facing attempted murder charges in connection with a shooting that critically wounded a Philadelphia police officer during a traffic stop on Saturday night.
Suspect Identified and Apprehended
Police have arrested Ramon Rodriguez Vazquez, 36, and charged him with attempted murder, aggravated assault, and home invasion, according to a police statement released on Sunday.
Shooting Follows Traffic Stop
The incident began around 8:00 pm on Saturday in the Kensington neighborhood when a 31-year-old officer and his partner pulled over a vehicle with four occupants. Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel explained during a late-night press conference that officers observed a passenger displaying a gun holster during a routine inventory check.
Suspect Opens Fire, Officer Critically Injured
The suspect, later identified as Vazquez, fled the scene and fired three shots, striking one officer in the neck. The wounded officer was rushed to Temple University Hospital in critical condition.
All Suspects in Custody
Commissioner Bethel confirmed that Vazquez, the other occupants of the vehicle, and “a person of interest” connected to the shooting are all in custody. He assured the public that investigators believe they have apprehended all those responsible.
