Philadelphia sanitation worker killed in Mayfair shooting identified

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The Philadelphia sanitation worker who was shot and killed in the Mayfair section of the city on Friday morning has been identified.

Ikeem Johnson, 35, died after the shooting around 10:30 a.m. in the 3300 block of Rowland Avenue near Tudor Street, just outside the campus of Lincoln High School.

Mayor Jim Kenney identified the victim in a statement released Friday afternoon, saying he joins "all of our City employees in mourning the loss of one of our own."

"I extend my deepest sympathies to those who knew and loved Ikeem Johnson. Today, we lost a dedicated City employee, a sanitation worker for the Streets Department who was simply doing his job and serving our city," Kenney said.

According to Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw, a man in a COVID mask and a blue Dickie's-style outfit approached the sanitation truck, causing it to stop.

The suspect approached the passenger side, Johnson got out, and there was a brief confrontation.

"Almost immediately upon exiting the truck the offender shot the victim multiple times," Outlaw said at a news conference near the crime scene.

Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect remains on the loose.

Nearby schools were placed on lockdown after the shooting.

"Kids shouldn't have to experience this," said Jas Ransom. "This is supposed to be a safe neighborhood. You don't ever see this. I work here every day and you don't see this going on."

Anyone with information can submit an anonymous tip by calling 215-686-TIPS.