Fallen Temple University police sergeant honored on 1-year anniversary of his death
Sergeant Christopher Fitzgerald's dedication is something fellow officers and loved ones praised him for.
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- One year has officially passed since Temple University Police Sergeant Christopher Fitzgerald was shot and killed in North Philadelphia while on duty.
Friends and family honored the life and legacy of the fallen police sergeant on Sunday night with a plaque dedication at the university.
"On this day last year, I prayed to God for him not to take him from us," said Marissa Fitzgerald, the fallen officer's wife.
Officials with Temple University said the memorial plaque showcases Fitzgerald's bravery and ensures his sacrifice will always be remembered.
At the ceremony, Fitzgerald's loved ones spoke of how much they miss him, and what his sacrifice means.
"To say this year has been a living nightmare is an understatement, at times it has been unbearable," said Pauline Fitzgerald, his mother. "His death has struck us to the core. It is my duty to make sure my voice is being heard."
Fitzgerald was recognized for his courage and commitment to inspiring change, but many also spoke about the pain his death caused the community.
"There is not a thing I can do or say to ease what you've experienced," noted Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker.
Temple University officials say they will forever remember Fitzgerald through the new plaque made in his honor.
"This plaque is more than a symbol, it's a reminder of the commitment Sgt. Fitzgerald made to protect and serve our community," said Dr. Jennifer Griffin, the vice president of public safety at Temple.
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On February 18, 2023, Fitzgerald was patrolling alone on the 1700 block of West Montgomery Avenue when he tried to stop a robbery and was fatally shot.
Miles Pfeffer, 19, from Bucks County, is awaiting trial and is facing charges including murder and murder of a law enforcement officer in this case.
Fitzgerald's family is still fighting for justice as they remember the hero that he was.
"We are his voice, we will never go away. I will speak until there is no breath in me for him to get the right justice he deserves," said Marissa Fitzgerald.
Hours before the deadly shooting, Action News caught Fitzgerald's final moments on camera as he was serving and protecting the community.
Fitzgerald's dedication is something fellow officers and loved ones praised him for.
In June of last year, a few months after he was killed, the street was renamed in honor of him.
The sign revealed the 1700 block of West Montgomery Avenue was renamed as Christopher Fitzgerald Way.
Fitzgerald served the Temple community for 16 months, and before that, he was with the Philadelphia County Sheriff's Office for two and a half years.
A memorial wall honoring Fitzgerald was unveiled privately to his family following the plaque dedication, officials say.
His family, who is still grieving the immense loss, say they still miss the fallen officer every day.
"A pain you wake up and have to live with every single day. People say it gets easier, as time goes by. It does not. It doesn't. Today is a year but it feels like it happened yesterday," said Marissa Fitzgerald.
