Police on Monday showed surveillance images of a man they believe is responsible for a "execution-style" double homicide that occurred in Philadelphia last week.
According to local police, the suspect has a robust build and was seen wearing a Dallas Cowboys hat while captured on camera near Mount Pleasant Mansion in Fairmount Park in northwest Philadelphia, as said in an updated report on Monday. No additional information was provided about his identity, as per Daily News.
Fairmount Park Execution-Style Slayings
On the night of February 29, authorities were called to Mount Pleasant Drive, near Fountain Green Drive, after an alarming identifying was made. Two individuals were found dead in a gully beside the road, leading to a swift police response.
Upon the arrival of first responders, the victims were identified as Thurston Cooper, 49, and Krystina Chambers, 38. Both individuals had succumbed to fatal gunshot wounds - Cooper to the head, and Chambers to the head and chest. The severity of their injuries led to their on-site pronouncement of death.
The circumstances surrounding this double murder remain shrouded in mystery, with law enforcement officials refraining from divulging further details at this time. The investigation is ongoing, and the public is urged to come forward with any information that may aid in solving this heinous crime. Authorities can be contacted at 215-686-TIPS, and anonymity is assured for those who wish to provide confidential tips.
The police has issued a cautionary advisory to the public, urging them not to approach the suspect but to contact 911 immediately if encountered. The seriousness of the situation shows how serious of the crime, and support from the community will be essential in moving the investigation forward.
Authorities Offer Reward
To encourage public support, the police department is providing a reward of $40,000 for information that leads to the capture and conviction of the individual behind the double homicide. This incentive highlights the seriousness with which law enforcement views the case and emphasizes their dedication to bringing justice to the victims and closure to their grieving families.
As the investigation progresses, additional evidence has come to bright showing that what happened occurred at around 11 p.m., in a close area to the known Mount Pleasant Mansion. The victims were found about half a block from the landmark, lying next to each other in what seems to be a deliberate and targeted act of violence.
Sources close to the investigation suggest that there might have been prior contact between the suspect and the victims, heightening the sense of concern within the community. Chief Inspector Scott Small reported that investigators located spent shell casings near the bodies, indicating an execution-style shooting.
The proximity of the shots further suggests that the suspect was near the victims when the fatal shots were fired, KYW Radio Philadelphia reported.
