Philadelphia police seek masked suspect accused of terrorizing downtown residents
Police are looking for a masked man, believed to be 16-20 years old, who chased a jogger and harassed a coffee-shop employee in Center City, facing charges of terroristic threats and assault.
Philadelphia police are searching for a masked suspect who authorities say has been terrorizing people in the city’s Center City district. Surveillance video released Monday shows the man confronting a woman jogging near City Hall early Wednesday, holding a cellphone to her face and asking, "Are you ready to die?" The woman attempted to flee while screaming for help, and the suspect fled north on 15th Street before boarding the escalators at Suburban Station.
"He was holding his cellphone in front of her, at which point he asked her, 'Are you ready to die?'" – Philadelphia Police Capt. Jason Smith
"The female is screaming for help this entire time," Smith added.
Later that morning, a coffee-shop employee reported that the same individual threatened a coworker, prompting a security guard to intervene. Both victims escaped without injury.
"It's pretty disturbing," said the employee, Kate Egan.
Police estimate the suspect is between 16 and 20 years old and allege he implied possession of a weapon, though none was observed. He faces charges that include terroristic threats, harassment, simple assault and intimidation. Authorities ask anyone with information to call Philadelphia police at 215-686-8477.