Philadelphia police officer shot near Overbrook High School, suspect Dachan Seay charged – 6abc Philadelphia

The officer who died was identified as Shane Seiber, 40, a 10-year veteran of the Philadelphia Police Department. He died at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center after suffering three gunshot wounds. Seiber was a husband and father of two young children, aged seven and three, according to police officials. His death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from city leaders and members of the law enforcement community.

A second officer, aged 33, was shot 12 times during the incident. He was taken to the same hospital for emergency treatment and was later reported to be in stable condition, according to updated reports. Both officers serve in the department’s 19th District.

How the Shooting Happened

According to Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel, officers were dispatched to the 100 block of North 52nd Street shortly after 12:20 a.m. on Saturday following a report of a man carrying a gun on the porch of a residence.

The officers arrived at approximately 12:50 a.m. and came under gunfire shortly after approaching the property. The suspect allegedly fled through a nearby alley and continued firing at responding officers. Additional officers joined the operation, and police established a perimeter while searching the neighbourhood.

The suspect was eventually located in a tree and taken into custody. Authorities also recovered two handguns and a shotgun at the scene. Officials said one of the recovered handguns belonged to one of the wounded officers. The suspect’s identity and the motive for the shooting had not been publicly confirmed in the reports available at the time of publication.

City Leaders Pay Tribute to Fallen Officer

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker expressed condolences to Seiber’s family and colleagues, describing his death as a devastating loss for the city. Police Commissioner Bethel also praised the courage and dedication of officers who respond to dangerous situations while carrying out their duties.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in honour of Seiber, recognising his service and sacrifice. The loss has also renewed attention to the dangers faced by law enforcement personnel responding to reports of armed individuals.

Investigation Continues

Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including what led to the initial police call and the events that followed the officers’ arrival. Authorities are expected to provide further information as the investigation progresses.

The incident has left one officer dead, another recovering from serious injuries and a community mourning the loss of a public servant. For Seiber’s family, the tragedy is especially painful as his wife and two young children face life without him.

The shooting underscores the unpredictable risks associated with responding to armed-person reports and the consequences such encounters can have for officers, their families and the wider community.