Crime & Safety

172 Arrested, 52 Police Officers Hurt In Philly Unrest So Far

Eighty-one people were arrested for various crimes such as burglary, assault, robbery and more overnight Tuesday into Wednesday.

A man stands holds merchandise outside of a damaged store after protest, Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2020, in Philadelphia over the death of Walter Wallace, a Black man who was killed by police in Philadelphia.
A man stands holds merchandise outside of a damaged store after protest, Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2020, in Philadelphia over the death of Walter Wallace, a Black man who was killed by police in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)

PHILADELPHIA — More than 170 people have been arrested between Monday night and Wednesday in connection with looting and violence in Philadelphia that broke out in the wake of the police killing of Walter Wallace Jr.

Officials Wednesday afternoon said a total of 172 people have been arrested for felony and misdemeanor offenses.

These arrests include two people arrested for burglary and assault on police, so the total number of individuals arrested for indictable offenses is 170, plus 13 for code violations.

Find out what's happening in Chestnut Hill-Mt. Airyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Below details about the 81 arrests made overnight Tuesday into Wednesday:

  • Aggravated Assault — one
  • Assault on Police — 8
  • Arson — one
  • Burglary — 52
  • Criminal Trespass — two
  • Disorderly Conduct — seven
  • Civil Violation Notices (CVN) for Failure to Disburse — four
  • Robbery — four
  • Vandalism — one

Nine explosions at various ATMs were reported overnight, as well.

Find out what's happening in Chestnut Hill-Mt. Airyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

In the wake of the ongoing unrest, Gov. Tom Wolf signed a Proclamation of Disaster Emergency to provide additional support to Philadelphia.

"Over the last few days, hundreds of people have gathered to peacefully speak out against social injustice, but their voices are being drowned out by others who are taking advantage of this fragile time in their city to sow mayhem and discord," Wolf said. "I signed this proclamation so commonwealth resources can be provided quickly to protect lives and property."

A Proclamation of Disaster Emergency is effective for a 90-day period unless sooner rescinded or extended by official action of the Governor.

Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw said investigators are working to make more arrests in connection with the looting and violence.

The recent looting has targeted big box stores in places that make congregating easier, such as Castor and Aramingo avenues where numerous stores were looted and damaged Tuesday night and Wednesday morning

"What we saw yesterday throughout our city, particularly in the area of Castor and Aramingo, had absolutely nothing to do with protests," Outlaw said. "The widespread lawlessness, including the burglary and looting of areas businesses, served no purpose whatsoever."

Deputy Commissioner Melvin Singleton said 22 arrests were made in that area and two officers were hurt there.

Outlaw said there have been 297 reported incidents of looting so far.

Additionally, 23 officers were injured. All were treated and released. Injuries included cuts and bruises from thrown objects such as rocks and bricks.

A police sergeant who was struck by a pickup truck Monday night is still recovering from a broken leg.

Nine police vehicles were damaged overnight as well. In total, 17 police and fire vehicle were damaged between Monday and Wednesday.


See more coverage of the Walter Wallace Jr. story below:

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