Overview
- Police say officers responding to reports of gunfire at North 54th and Arlington were establishing a scene on Saturday night when 57‑year‑old Eric Franks approached, became combative and shoved a sergeant before producing a handgun.
- Officers say Franks fired at them, three officers were struck in the face, hip and leg, four officers returned fire, and Franks was later pronounced dead at a hospital.
- All three wounded officers were treated at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center; a 39‑year‑old sergeant and a 43‑year‑old officer have been released and one officer remains hospitalized but stable.
- Investigators recovered a 9mm handgun at the scene and say Franks held a carry permit, and the district attorney’s office has begun an active, impartial review of bodycam, surveillance video and other evidence.
- Franks’ family and neighbors describe him as a retired firefighter, Marine veteran and community business owner and they, along with local leaders, are pressing for transparency while officials withhold some operational details to preserve the investigation.