Richard Butler murder: Manhunt underway for suspect in Philadelphia shooting of 88-year-old veteran
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA: Authorities in Philadelphia have launched a desperate manhunt for a suspect linked to the tragic murder of an 88-year-old veteran, Richard Butler, who was ruthlessly gunned down in broad daylight earlier this month.
The fatal incident occurred on March 5 around 1.35 pm in the 100 block of North Dewey Street, according to a news release from the Philadelphia Police Department.
Insights on Richard Butler's shooting
Reports indicate that Butler was seated inside his SUV when an assailant approached the vehicle and unleashed a barrage of gunfire, striking the elderly victim twice in the chest. Despite efforts to save his life, the victim succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
Details surrounding the suspect's identity have emerged through video footage released by the police. The footage, unveiled on Friday, depicts the suspect clad in a gray hoodie and black shorts over black tights.
Additionally, the suspect was observed riding in a silver 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, equipped with dark-tinted windows, a dented front passenger side panel, and a Pennsylvania license plate, per Fox.
Police issue cautionary alert as surveillance captures suspect's vehicle
Further surveillance footage captured the silver Altima, believed to be used by the shooter and a getaway driver, traversing under the EL along Market Street in West Philadelphia. Authorities have issued a stern warning, deeming the suspect as armed and dangerous, urging the public to exercise caution if encountered.
The suspect reportedly exited the vehicle and lay in wait as Butler escorted his girlfriend to the corner of Dewey Street, before approaching the veteran's vehicle and firing multiple rounds, totaling five shots. "It's a terrible experience and we've had to do this on too many occasions," Pastor Garth Gittens, of Calvary Baptist Church, where Butler's funeral took place, lamented.
"This is uncalled for. We gotta get a grip of ourselves as a society, as a community. We gotta stop being so violent and hateful toward each other. Love is a power that conquers hate. We should love and not hate."
A plea for cooperation has been extended by law enforcement, urging anyone with pertinent information regarding the shooting or the suspect's whereabouts to come forward. A reward of $20,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrator.
