Miles Pfeffer kills Temple University police officer Christopher Fitzgerald

In February 2023, Miles Pfeffer, an 18-year-old from Bucks County, was charged with the murder of Temple University police officer Christopher Fitzgerald in North Philadelphia. This incident occurred when Fitzgerald was attempting to detain Pfeffer, who was a suspect in a series of carjackings. During the confrontation, Pfeffer allegedly pulled out a gun and shot Fitzgerald, striking him multiple times, including at point-blank range. Fitzgerald later died from his injuries at Temple Hospital, and the location of the shooting was subsequently named Christopher Fitzgerald Way to honor the fallen officer. The trial against Pfeffer commenced with jury selection taking place on a Monday in June 2025. During the trial, presented evidence included security camera footage of the chase and the subsequent shooting. Testimony from Pfeffer's brother, who witnessed the events, further substantiated the prosecution's case. While the defense argued that Pfeffer acted out of panic rather than premeditated intent, the prosecution maintained that the video evidence demonstrated clear intent to kill. The jury deliberated for less than thirty minutes before finding Pfeffer guilty of first-degree murder, murder of a law enforcement officer, firearms violations, and other charges. Following the conviction, Miles Pfeffer faces a possible life sentence without parole. The trial highlighted not only the tragic loss of Officer Fitzgerald—a 31-year-old dedicated law enforcement official, husband, and father—but also raised discussions surrounding youth crime and the circumstances leading to such violent encounters. Additionally, it emphasized the dangers faced by police officers in their line of duty. The case has drawn public attention, reflecting ongoing concerns about safety on college campuses and the impact of carjacking incidents. The brutal nature of Fitzgerald's murder and the subsequent trial has become a point of contention in the community, with calls for increased measures to protect law enforcement personnel and address the underlying issues contributing to youth violence.