June 14 (UPI) — Three officers were injured and the suspect was killed in a shooting in Philadelphia late Saturday night.
Officers were called to reports of shots fired at a vehicle in West Philadelphia at about 10:30 p.m. EDT. The officers “engaged” with a 57-year-old Eric Franks, who they told to stand down before Franks allegedly drew a firearm and fired at them.
Gunfire was exchanged after Franks allegedly shoved an officer and two officers attempted to detain him. It was at that point that he allegedly drew a firearm.
Franks was killed at the scene, Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel said during a press conference. Four officers discharged their weapons.
“For a period of time, police personnel are trying to explain the situation to Franks in regard to establishing a crime scene, and at that point, Franks becomes increasingly agitated,” the Philadelphia Police Department said in a press release on Sunday.
The injured officers were taken to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center. One officer suffered a gunshot wound in the face while the others were shot in the hip and leg. All are in stable condition.
When officers arrived on the scene they discovered a black Cadillac that had been hit by gunfire. While officers were canvassing for evidence, Franks allegedly approached them.
An attorney for Franks’ family said he was a former Philadelphia firefighter and Marine veteran. He was also married, had two children and owned several businesses.
Police are investigating the incident.
