Trial Begins For Man Accused Killing Temple Police Officer Philadelphia

The trial of Miles Pfeffer, accused of fatally shooting Temple University Police Officer Christopher Fitzgerald in February 2023, began with jury selection in Philadelphia. Pfeffer, who was 18 at the time of the incident, faces charges including first-degree murder, murder of a law enforcement officer, robbery, and carjacking, with the possibility of a life sentence if convicted. Prosecutors allege that Pfeffer shot Fitzgerald multiple times during a struggle after the officer spotted him and two others near Temple’s campus, and then attempted to steal the officer’s gun and car. Evidence to be presented includes bodycam footage showing Fitzgerald lying motionless after the shooting, which Fitzgerald’s family believes is crucial to holding Pfeffer accountable. Pfeffer was arrested less than 12 hours after the shooting at his mother’s home in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. The case has drawn attention due to the violent nature of the crime and Fitzgerald's role as a campus police sergeant.