Man prowling in Delco neighborhood fires shots at police, officials say

Two officers suffered minor injuries after an armed man who was prowling around a Delaware County neighborhood fired shots at police early Friday morning, according to investigators.

Police first responded to a home along the 100 block of Terrace Avenue, near North Lynn Street, in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, after receiving a 911 call reporting a man who was prowling around the house. 

Five officers arrived at the home and spotted the man in the back of the property, police said. The man then allegedly pulled out a gun and opened fire. 

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A neighbor who did not want to go on camera told NBC10 he was woken up and heard at least a couple of shots.

The officers retreated and the man fled the scene, investigators said. One of the officers suffered a graze wound during the shooting, according to Upper Darby Police Superintendent Timothy Bernhardt. 

“He did not receive a gunshot wound but he received abrasions or graze wounds from the gunfire that he took,” Bernhardt said. 

Earlier tonight at 01:12am, officers responded to the area of the 100 Block of Terrace Ave off of North Lynn. It was reported during this incident that an Upper Darby Police officer was shot. These initial reports were determined to be false.

— Upper Darby Police (@UDPolice) September 22, 2023

The officers set up a perimeter and Pennsylvania State Police provided air support, according to Bernhardt. An armored truck - a helicopter - and several dogs were involved in the search. 

Investigators said the officers then found the suspect in the back of an Upper Darby home, hiding under a swing set. 

“That heat sensor that everyone is familiar with, we were able to detect the heat source in the rear of that property,” Bernhardt said. 

The officers then captured the man who allegedly fought them as they apprehended him. One officer suffered a hand injury while taking him into custody, Bernhardt said. 

“He violently fought with them and resisted arrest. Thankfully they were able to get him into custody,” Bernhardt said. 

The man, who has not yet been identified, is currently in custody. Police said he was in possession of a 9mm handgun.

“I’d say he has no regard for human life or for public safety," Bernhardt said. 

The officer who suffered a graze wound was released from the hospital while the officer who suffered a hand injury is being treated, according to Bernhardt. Both officers are expected to make a full recovery. 

Another officer from an assisting law enforcement agency also suffered minor injuries after being bitten in the leg by a K-9 officer. The officer was treated at the hospital and is expected to fully recover.