Suspect sought for 2 fatal shootings and an attempted homicide in Hunting Park

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia police are searching for a man seen in surveillance photos who investigators believe may be connected to two recent homicides and an attempted homicide in the Hunting Park section.

The most recent killing occurred Friday. Police said they are working to identify and locate the suspect before anyone else is harmed.

Investigators believe the man captured in surveillance images is responsible for three recent armed robberies.

One victim was critically injured, while two others were killed.

"All three incidents are perpetrated very similarly in the same geographic area. So, we are believing now they're all connected," Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore of the Philadelphia Police Department said.

All three incidents occurred late at night in, or near, Hunting Park, according to police.

The first shooting took place May 29. A 55-year-old man was shot in the abdomen and elbow. He survived but suffered critical injuries.

The second shooting occurred June 20 and involved a 45-year-old man. The third occurred June 26 and involved a 29-year-old man. Police said those victims were shot in the back and neither survived.

"The motive appears to be robbery, in all these cases. At least it does in the first case. We have a witness telling us he announced the robbery, but at this point, that's our theory," Vanore said.

Vanore also said the suspect was seen leaving the area between 10 and 11 p.m. on at least two occasions after the shootings.

According to police, he was riding a SEPTA Broad Street Line train.

"It's very important that the people that are watching this look at that video. If anyone knows who this individual is, he should be considered armed and dangerous," Vanore said.

Residents spending time in Hunting Park on Monday said the case is especially troubling because of the number of children who visit the park during the warmer months.

"I think you see everyone comes to play baseball, children swim. Kids come here to play. This shouldn't be a place of violence," said Jinorio Fernandez of Hunting Park.

Police said the surveillance images show the suspect wearing distinctive clothing. Investigators also noted that he has tattoos on his wrists that may extend farther up his arms.

Anyone with information can call or text Philadelphia police at 215-686-TIPS (8477) or submit an anonymous tip online.