Family of fallen officer Robert Wilson III honored at 76ers game

SOUTH PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The City of Philadelphia and the Sixers stepped up to make a special night for the family of fallen Philadelphia police officer - Sgt. Robert Wilson III.

From the minute he walked into the Wells Fargo Center on Wednesday night, Quahmier Wilson was surrounded by love and support.

The 10-year-old was personally invited to an up close and personal hangout with the Philadelphia 76ers

Quahmier and 1-year-old Robert IV are the sons of fallen Philadelphia police officer - Sgt. Robert Wilson III.

Wilson was gunned down on the job while buying his son a present at a North Philadelphia GameStop.

Mayor Michael Nutter, through the Fatherhood Enrichment program, helped make this special night possible.

"It was important for folks to understand that when a son loses a father it's important to rally around the son," said Maxwell Brown.

Quahmier and his family were given front row seats to watch the 76ers warm up.

"It's a whole lot of fun. It's crazy - I've never been up this far. Normally I'm back there," said Quahmier.

He got a tour of the locker room with guard Jason Richardson as his special guide.

He also had a touching one-on-one conversation with coach Brett Brown

Then of course there was time to shoot around with the players.

Quahmier also got autographed shoes from Nerlens Noel - but they are a size 16!

"I don't think I'll be fitting those until I'm 12," said Quahmier.

Also invited to the game - 150 officers from the 22nd district including Wilson's partner Officer Damien Stephenson.

Stephenson said he's glad to see his partner's son enjoying the moment.

"It's the same smile his dad had, the smile I see on the face is the same smile," said Officer Stephenson.

"I'm excited to be here. I got to meet everybody - it's really fun being here right in front," said Quahmier.

For Wilson's family and friends it wasn't just about a basketball game, it was a time to smile, to laugh and to feel the love from the community.

"Thank you to everyone for the support in the community, the city, the police department, on social media - they've showed so much love," said Officer Stephenson.

The Philadelphia Police Department and the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5 have established a GoFundMe page for contributions to Officer Wilson's family.

Click here to donate

Wilson's fellow brother and sisters in blue have also established a trust fund for his family.

Anyone wishing to make a donation can do so in person at the following
PFFCU branches:

901 Arch Street

7604 City Avenue

8500 Henry Avenue

Leo Mall, Byberry and Bustleton Avenue

7500 Castor Avenue

3300 Grant Avenue

Or by mailing a check payable to:

The Robert Wilson III Family Memorial Trust Fund

Police and Fire Federal Credit Union

901 Arch Street

Philadelphia PA, 19107