Phoenixville Shooting Death Under Investigation As Homicide

PHOENIXVILLE, PA — Police found a 73-year-old man dead in his Phoenixville home on Dec. 29 and the death is being investigated as a homicide, authorities said.

Detectives from Phoenixville Police Department and the Chester County District Attorney's Office are investigating the murder of Ira Solomon at his residence in Phoenixville.

Law enforcement said they need help from the community. "If you reside in this area of town and have exterior video security cameras, please contact the police," Phoenixville police posted on Dec. 31.

According to a report from the D.A.'s office, police found the victim at 401 Dayton St. on Dec. 29 at 12:52 p.m. EMS responders pronounced Solomon dead at the scene, officials reported.

Friends of the victim who were at the residence when police arrived reported finding the back door unlocked, the D.A. reported.

Police found two 9mm spent shell casings in the kitchen, along with a miniature baseball bat near the victim’s body, the report said. Detectives also recovered the victim's cell phone.

Phoenixville residents throughout the afternoon on Tuesday reported on social media seeing police and news helicopter activity, and the home being taped off as officers investigated the death.

Pennsylvania State Police Troop J assisted detectives at the scene.

Anyone with information should contact police at 610-933-1180 Ext. 815 or 816.