PHILADELPHIA, PA – A deadly stabbing occurred at a Macy’s department store in Philadelphia on Monday, leaving a security guard dead and another injured. The incident transpired at the store located on the 1300 block of Market Street in Center City.
The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Tyrone Tunnell of Philadelphia, was apprehended at a SEPTA station in Kensington following the tragedy. Interim Police Commissioner John Stanford stated that the incident commenced around 10:45 a.m., with Tunnell attempting to steal several hats from the store.
The suspect was intercepted by security personnel, leading to a confrontation. However, after the merchandise was recovered, Tunnell was allowed to leave. He returned to the store approximately 15 minutes later and attacked one of the guards with a knife. The other security guard tried to intervene and was severely injured.
Both guards were immediately transported to Jefferson Hospital. The security guard attacked first, a 30-year-old man, did not survive his injuries, while the other guard, aged 23, suffered knife wounds to his face and left arm.
Tunnell, on the other hand, fled the scene via the Market-Frankford Line and was subsequently arrested at SEPTA’s Somerset Station. The violent incident resulted in Macy’s temporary closure, causing shock among shoppers and visitors.
The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office spokesperson mentioned that murder and aggravated assault charges against Tunnell are expected to be filed soon. A statement from Macy’s expressed the company’s heartbreak over the incident and affirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of its customers and colleagues.
Authorities noted that the Macy’s location in Center City has over 250 reported instances of retail theft this year. The store’s reopening date remains undecided.