Public viewings and funeral for Officer Jaime Roman in Philadelphia this week

Philadelphia Police Officer Jaime Roman passed away on September 10 at the age of 31, nearly two months after being shot during a traffic stop in Kensington. He was surrounded by family at Temple University Hospital at the time of his death. Roman was just two weeks shy of his seventh anniversary as an officer, highlighting the tragic loss felt by his colleagues and the community. Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel expressed the profound impact of such losses on the police force, emphasizing the emotional toll it takes on officers and their families. The public will have the opportunity to pay their respects during two viewings scheduled for September 18 and 19. The first viewing will take place at Givnish Funeral Home in Northeast Philadelphia, starting at 5:30 p.m. and concluding at 8:30 p.m. A Commanders March will precede this event, beginning at nearby Archbishop Ryan High School. The second viewing will occur at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul on September 19, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by a private funeral service. Officer Roman was shot in the neck on June 22 while conducting a traffic stop. During the incident, he and his partner noticed a holster in a vehicle they were surveying. One of the passengers fled and opened fire on Roman, leading to his critical injuries. The alleged shooter, Ramon Rodriguez Vazquez, was later identified and charged, highlighting the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty. The community's response to Roman's death reflects the deep respect and gratitude for his service. As the public gathers to honor his memory, it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by police officers and the ongoing challenges they encounter in their commitment to public safety.