Policeman Charged with Murder After Fatal Shooting
A shocking incident in Philadelphia has led to murder charges against police officer Mark Dial. The officer allegedly shot a motorist, Eddie Irizarry, while he sat in his car. The disturbing incident unfolded on August 14th and was captured on body-camera footage, which was later shown at a news conference.
In the video, Officer Dial and his partner can be seen slowly driving through a neighborhood in Philadelphia before making a traffic stop. Just seven seconds after exiting their police SUV and approaching Mr. Irizarry’s vehicle, the video appears to show Officer Dial firing six shots, resulting in Irizarry’s tragic death.
The footage goes on to show Officer Dial and his partner removing Mr. Irizarry’s lifeless body from his car, which was covered in blood. Following the shooting, the 27-year-old victim was rushed to the hospital, where his death from gunshot wounds was deemed a homicide, according to Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner.
Initial reports from the police suggested that they had pulled over Mr. Irizarry’s car due to erratic driving and had shot him outside the vehicle because he had allegedly “lunged at” them with a knife. However, a review of the officers’ body-worn camera footage revealed a different story.
Philadelphia’s outgoing police commissioner, Danielle Outlaw, acknowledged that the initial account was inaccurate, and the body camera footage “made it very clear that what we initially reported was not actually what happened.”
Both Officer Dial’s camera and the second officer’s camera present at the scene have become crucial pieces of evidence in the case, as they “speak for themselves,” said Mr. Krasner.
Officer Dial, who has served as a police officer for five years, will face not only murder charges but also charges of voluntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, and official oppression.
Dial’s lawyer, Fortunato Perri Jr, has vowed to vigorously defend his client, asserting that the facts will show that Dial was legally justified in using force as he feared for his life.
Following the incident, Officer Dial was suspended by the Philadelphia Police Department, with plans to terminate his employment. Meanwhile, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney has called on the community to “remain peaceful in demonstrations,” acknowledging that the footage may evoke anger and upset among residents.