Recognizing and honoring Aaron Turner and Eric Schroder of the 18th Police District for their courageous actions which led to the confiscation of an illegal firearm and stolen vehicle.

WHEREAS, On January 25, 2022, 18th District Tactical Officers, Eric Schroder and Aaron Turner, were on patrol in the area of 5300 Baltimore Avenue in Southwest Philadelphia; and

WHEREAS, During the course of their patrol, both officers observed a vehicle with violations of the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code and activated their emergency lights initiate a vehicle investigation; and

WHEREAS, During questioning, Officer Schroder observed what appeared to be a weapon on the driver’s waistband, and the driver failed to correctly verify his name and date of birth; and

WHEREAS, The driver was then asked by Officer Turner to turn off the engine and exit the vehicle; and

WHEREAS, The driver then quickly lunged for his waistband, leading Officer Turner to intervene to prevent the driver from accessing the weapon; and

WHEREAS, The driver - with Officer Turner still engaged in the door - began to speed forward at high speed; and

WHEREAS, While dangling out of the open door of the vehicle, Officer Turner fought for control of the steering wheel while preventing the driver from accessing the firearm; and

WHEREAS, The vehicle struck an unoccupied vehicle on 48th Street and Baltimore Avenue, providing an opportunity for Officer Turner to detain the driver until back-up officers arrived to the scene; and

WHEREAS, Miraculously, Officer Turner and the driver only sustained minor injuries; and

WHEREAS, The investigation resulted in the confiscation of the driver’s weapon, which was loaded with twelve live rounds; and

WHEREAS, A full investigation of the car and driver revealed both the car and gun to be stolen; and

WHEREAS, The heroic acts of Officer Turner and Officer Schroder are textbook examples of good police work, which is critical for getting illegal guns off the streets; and

WHEREAS, The courageous men and women of the Philadelphia Police Department serve with honor and distinction each day; and

WHEREAS, Stories like these are reminders of the great sacrifice and risk police officers undertake to keep the public safe; their courageous acts of service should not go unnoticed; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADLEPHIA, That it herby recognizes and honors Aaron Turner and Eric Schroder of the 18th Police District for their courageous actions which led to the confiscation of an illegal firearm and stolen vehicle.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That and Engrossed copy be presented to the 18th Police District, further evidencing the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body.

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