Helicopter, K9s track down suspect after shots fired at officers in Upper Darby: police

UPPER DARBY, Pa. - One in the morning along the 100 block of Terrace Avenue, in Upper Darby, and police receive a 911 call for a prowler. Five responding officers are met with gunfire.

"Immediately upon walking onto the property, they take gunfire from a male in the back of the property," Upper Darby Police Superintendent Timothy Bernhardt said. "The officers were able to retreat. The male fled the scene."

But, not before squeezing off multiple shots at officers. Bullet holes are seen in a Mercedes in the driveway and a window frame.

Jim Rogan’s mother and nephew were inside the home and gave FOX 29 security camera footage of what they say is the suspect in their backyard.

"They were upstairs. He saw it, he called 911. So, he was on the phone with 911 when the cops arrived," Jim Rogan explained. "He’s watching on his phone as the guy started shooting at the cops."

Neighbors say police swarmed the area, including SWAT and K9 units. Residents, awoken by the commotion, find gun violence has come to their front doors.

"We could hear as they were running down the streets. We heard the shots. My husband was stayed inside and kept the windows closed," Upper Darby resident Emily Lemmon said.

The suspect, described as carrying a 9mm pistol, scrambles two blocks away, into a backyard and under a swing set.

In the air, a State Police helicopter arrived from Reading, heat sensing equipment on board, pinpoints the suspect. John Knese watches SWAT approach from his upstairs window.

"What did you think when you saw them walk out with him?" asked FOX 29’s Jeff Cole.

"I guess a sign of relief because they caught him. This guy is running around the neighborhood with a gun," Knese replied.

Police say the suspect fought, but was subdued and, while two officers were injured, both will recover from an incident that could have ended in tragedy.

"Do you know why he’d immediately fire at your officers?" Cole asked.

"I don’t. I’d say he has no regard for human life or public safety," Superintendent Bernhardt replied.