Police ID Phoenixville man shot dead inside home

PHOENIXVILLE, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- Authorities in Chester County are investigating the shooting death of a 73-year-old man inside his Phoenixville home.

The victim is identified as Ira Solomon.

Police were called to the home on the 400 block of Dayton Street just before 1 p.m. Tuesday.

Friends of the victim who were at the home when police arrived reported finding the back door unlocked.

"Witnesses reported that the back door to the victim's home was unlocked and when police entered they found two 9 millimeter spent shell casings found in the kitchen along with a miniature baseball bat that was found next to the victim's body," said Chester County District Attorney Deb Ryan.

Solomon was pronounced dead at the scene by medics.

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Police also recovered his cellphone.

According to family members Solomon, a father of nine originally from Georgia, was beloved by his family and neighbors often throwing barbeques using his smokers in the backyard.

"That was my dad and I love him," said Jacqueline Larkin. "He did not deserve to die like this, please help. If it was your family member you would want to know."

Pennsylvania State Police assisted detectives at the scene.

Anyone with information on this case should contact Phoenixville Detectives at 610-933-1180 x815 or Chester County Detectives at 610-344-6866.