Philadelphia Officer Shot in Kensington: Suspect Charged, Bail Set at $12.5 Million

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Written By Kanisha Laing

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Philadelphia’s police commissioner and other city officials gave an update on Monday about the investigation into Ramon Rodriguez Vazquez, the man accused of shooting a police officer in Kensington over the weekend.

On Sunday, Vazquez, 36, was charged with attempted murder of a law enforcement officer, along with other offenses like aggravated assault and criminal trespass.

The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office announced on Monday that Vazquez’s bail was set at $12.5 million.

The 31-year-old officer, who has been on the force for about six years, was shot at least once in the neck on Saturday. He was taken to the hospital and is in critical condition on life support, according to Mayor Cherelle Parker.

Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel said on Monday that the officer is fighting for his life, and the family has asked for privacy.

District Attorney Larry Krasner called the situation “unspeakable” and “unacceptable,” promising support for the victim’s family and law enforcement.

According to police, Vazquez allegedly shot at two officers on Saturday night after they pulled over a car. The stop escalated into a “live stop” due to issues with the driver and the vehicle.

During the stop, Vazquez made a phone call, and shortly after, two women and a man arrived in another vehicle. They were not in the car that was pulled over, as initially reported.

While searching the car, officers found a gun holster, and when they approached Vazquez, he allegedly ran and fired shots at the officers. The injured officer’s partner returned fire, and Vazquez fled the scene.

He was later seen on video running to a garage, changing his shirt, and attempting to get into a minivan before forcing a person into their home at gunpoint. He was eventually taken into custody without further incident.

A prayer meeting is scheduled outside the 12th District building tonight in honor of the injured officer.

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