Councilman David Oh returns to work after stabbing

SOUTHWEST PHILADELPHIA (WTXF) - Philadelphia city councilman David Oh has returned to work after being stabbed at his home in Southwest Philadelphia Wednesday night.

Police say David Oh, 57, was removing a bag from the back of his city-owned Chevy SUV, at about 9:40 p.m. Wednesday, when someone approached him. They said something the councilman said he couldn't understand, and stabbed him in the back.

Councilman Oh returned to work Friday after the incident.

Authorities say it was an attempted robbery and the attacker probably thought something in the bag was valuable.

Thursday morning, Councilman Oh's office put out this statement:

"Councilman Oh is in recovery after a successful surgery overnight. He will remain at the hospital to monitor his recovery but expected to fully heal and return home soon.

"The Councilman thanks the medical staff, his Council and City colleagues, and the community for their prayers and support, and he looks forward to getting back to City Hall to serve Philadelphia.

Additionally, anyone with information about this crime is urged to call 911."

FOX 29's Steve Keeley reports Oh had been returning from a meeting with Asian business owners.

He was stabbed once on the left side of his body while his wife and four children were in their house.

The area is said to be desolate, with very little foot traffic. Neighbors came out to help, wait for medics, and comfort the family.

Oh was taken to the hospital and operated on, to make sure no vital organs were affected. He was released from the hospital Thursday.

Oh -- a Philadelphia native and the first Asian-American elected to public office in Philadelphia -- serves the city at large. The Republican was first elected to council in 2011 and re-elected in 2015. He has lived on his block since 1963.

According to his website, he is the only military veteran currently serving on City Council.

Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney released this statement:

"We are all praying for Councilman Oh's quick recovery and thinking of his family during this incredibly difficult time. Whenever violence happens on our streets it is a terrible tragedy. When it happens near our homes, where we are supposed to feel safe, it is all the more devastating. Anyone with information regarding this crime is urged to call 911."

Police do not think Oh was targeted because of his position. Police firmly believe this is a random attack.
Oh says he's looking forward to getting back to work.