Officer details ambush by gunman who said he acted for Islam
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — A police officer ambushed by a silent gunman who later said he acted in the name of Islam testified in court Thursday about the attack, detailing how he kicked his way out of the cruiser to return fire.
Philadelphia prosecutors have found no evidence that suspect Edward Archer has any links to terrorism, though federal authorities continue to explore that issue.
"The fact that he had his wits about him, to think, 'I need to go back to my patrol vehicle; I need to get a tourniquet,' I can't imagine anyone doing that," Assistant District Attorney Allison Borgatti said after the hearing.
The weapon, a 9 mm Glock pistol, had been stolen from a Philadelphia police officer's home in 2013, police officials have said.