Philadelphia Police Officer Killed in Airport Parking Garage Shooting
Authorities have made an arrest in connection with the tragic shooting that took the life of a Philadelphia police officer and injured another. Yobranny Martinez Fernandez, 18, was apprehended in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and is currently being held on a fugitive warrant.
The incident occurred when Officers Richard Mendez and Raul Ortiz witnessed a group of individuals breaking into a car at Philadelphia International Airport. As they intervened, a confrontation ensued, resulting in the officers and one suspect being shot.
Officer Richard Mendez, a dedicated member of the force for over two decades, tragically lost his life in the shooting. His handcuffs were found on the suspect at the time of his arrest. Officer Raul Ortiz, a 20-year veteran, was shot in the arm but has since been released from the hospital.
Police officer Richard Mendez in a file photo. (Police Department Office of Public Affairs via AP)
Authorities believe that the suspects fled in a stolen SUV, which was later seen at a hospital where 18-year-old Jesus Herman Madera Duran was dropped off. Duran, who was involved in the confrontation with the officers, succumbed to his injuries. Police suspect that Duran had accomplices, one of whom is believed to be responsible for the shots fired.
Interim Police Commissioner John Stanford expressed the department’s shock and sorrow, emphasizing that this incident occurred just a week after three officers were shot and wounded while on duty.
The investigation is ongoing, and a reward of $237,400 is being offered for information leading to an arrest. The Mendez family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
By Ron Todt
How many individuals were involved in the shooting incident?
Of Texas Evacuated After Shooting in Dallas, One Arrested
10/15/2023
Officer Mendez, 29, died from his injuries at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, while Officer Ortiz, 35, was treated for non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to recover.
Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw expressed her condolences and said, “This is a tragic day for the entire Philadelphia Police Department. Our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Mendez’s family, friends, and colleagues during this extremely difficult time. We will do everything in our power to ensure that justice is served.”
An investigation is currently underway to determine the motive for the shooting and to identify any other individuals involved. The incident has sparked a renewed discussion about gun violence and the safety of law enforcement officers in the line of duty.
This is not the first time that an incident of this nature has occurred at Philadelphia International Airport. In 2020, an armed individual attempted to breach security and was subsequently shot and injured by law enforcement.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
Now loading...