Police shot a suicidal man who pointed a gun at them in West Philadelphia on Friday, investigators said.
Police said the 37-year-old man – who has not yet been identified – was involved in a domestic dispute with his wife or girlfriend at his home along the 5100 block of Funston Street on Thursday, Oct. 22. Police responded to the home and helped settle the incident Thursday, but another domestic incident occurred at the home a day later, around 5:15 p.m., according to investigators.
Witnesses called 911 after they spotted the man armed with a gun in the middle of the street, police said. At the same time, police officers who were already on 52nd and Race streets were flagged down by other witnesses who alerted them to the armed man.
When police arrived on 51st and Funston streets, they spotted the man who was holding a handgun to his head while making comments consistent with suicidal behavior, investigators said. He then went up to the porch of his home while continuing to speak with the officers as he held the gun to his head, according to police.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or chat live at 988lifeline.org. You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional support.
Police maintained a safe distance as the man went to an abandoned property next to his home.
The man then pointed his gun towards the officers, officials said. Seven officers then pulled out their own weapons and opened fire, shooting the man multiple times.
The officers then rendered aid to the man and rushed him to the hospital where he is currently in critical condition.
No officers were injured during the incident.
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