On the morning of December 12, a wave of armed robberies and attempted robberies rattled several Philadelphia neighborhoods. Police reported that in all five incidents a suspect approached a victim with a rifle, demanded money or valuables, and fled in a silver SUV or pickup truck.
Five Incidents, One Pattern
The Philadelphia Police Department identified five separate events that day, all involving firearms and swift escapes. In each case, at least one suspect pointed a rifle at the target before driving away. Investigators noted the common use of silver-colored vehicles—either SUVs or pickup trucks—which may indicate a coordinated effort or a shared modus operandi.
Successful Robberies
1. Emery Street, Port Richmond
At approximately 5:44 a.m. on Dec. 12, a man was seated in his car on the 2500 block of Emery Street when two men approached him with a rifle. The suspects demanded money. They left with an iPhone, two iPads, and an undisclosed amount of cash, according to police.
2. Rising Sun Avenue, North Philly
Around 6 a.m. on the same day, a woman was using an ATM on the 4700 block of Rising Sun Avenue when two individuals approached her. They displayed rifles and took cash from her, police said. No additional items were reported as taken.
Attempted Robberies
1. Clearfield Street, Port Richmond
Just after midnight, a woman was driving on the 2500 block of Clearfield Street when a silver pickup pulled in front of her and blocked her path. A person exited the truck, pointed a rifle through the driver’s side window, and demanded she open the doors. The woman explained she had no money, reversed her car, and drove away. The suspect returned to the pickup and left without taking anything.
2. East Thompson Street, Fishtown
At 2:47 a.m., a woman was walking up the steps to her home on the 800 block of East Thompson Street when a masked man in all‑black clothing approached. He pointed a rifle at her. The woman pushed him away and ran into her house. The suspect then entered a light‑colored SUV and drove off, again leaving no items.
3. East Palmer Street, Fishtown
On the 1000 block of East Palmer Street, a man was sitting in his car at 6:17 a.m. When a rifle‑armed person approached, the man resisted, grabbed the gun, and pushed it away. The suspect fled without taking anything.
Police Response and Public Appeal
Police are still investigating whether these incidents are connected. As of Friday night, no link has been confirmed. Officers are urging anyone with information to come forward.
If you have any details about these robberies, contact the East Detective Division at 215‑686‑3243. Anonymous tips can also be left by calling 215‑686‑TIPS (8477).
Key Takeaways
- Five armed robbery and attempted robbery incidents occurred on Dec. 12 across Philadelphia.
- All suspects used rifles and escaped in silver SUVs or pickup trucks.
- Successful thefts included electronics and cash; attempts resulted in no take.
- Police have not established a connection among the incidents.
- Witnesses are requested to assist the investigation.
The series of events underscores the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to ensure public safety in Philadelphia.
