Philadelphia police officer Raul Ortiz, a seasoned 20-year veteran, was discharged from Jefferson Hospital after sustaining an injury during a tragic shooting at Philadelphia International Airport, where fellow officer Richard Mendez lost his life.
Raul Ortiz, aged 60, returned home to his family on Saturday, surrounded by his colleagues who stood in solemn salute
The Philadelphia Police Department expressed gratitude for the outstanding care Raul Ortiz received from Jefferson Health, emphasizing the community’s unwavering support.
John McNesby, President of the Philadelphia FOP Lodge 5, voiced hope for Raul Ortiz’s complete recovery while acknowledging the collective sorrow over Mendez’s untimely demise. The fatal incident unfolded when Raul Ortiz and Mendez responded to a car break-in at the airport’s parking garage, leading to a deadly confrontation with 18-year-old suspect Jesus Herman Madera Duran. In the exchange of gunfire, Mendez tragically lost his life, while Raul Ortiz sustained an arm injury.
Duran, also injured, fled the scene but was later taken to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia by an accomplice, who promptly departed
Subsequently, in South Brunswick, New Jersey, police recovered Duran’s escape vehicle, a Dodge Durango, utilized by a group of suspects in their flight from the crime scene and the hospital. The exact size of the suspect group remains undisclosed. A substantial reward of $184,500 stands for any information leading to the apprehension of those involved in the Thursday night incident. The Philadelphia Police Department and the city remain steadfast in their support for Officer Raul Ortiz and his family during this difficult time.
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