Chase for man wanted in fatal shooting leads to officer-involved shooting, successful arrest: police

PHILADELPHIA – Chaos erupted in Kensington when two Philadelphia police officers confronted a wanted murder suspect.

Philadelphia police say two security officers on routine patrol in Kensington on Tuesday spotted A 29-year-old man, who was wanted for murder three weeks ago, and when they approached him, the suspect ran away.

“We actively sought his arrest. When the officers recognized him and did what they were supposed to do, they tried to stop him,” Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore said.

SKYFOX was live streaming the scene in the 3100 block of Rich Street. The incident happened around 5:30 p.m

Investigators say the suspect, identified as Spencer Mudgett, fled and a chase ensued.

“That chase went up Rich Street, went around to the alley between Custer and Rich,” Vanor said. “At some point there was a confrontation behind these two properties, shots were fired and a person was struck by the gunfire.”

Police say Mudgett was wanted for killing 23-year-old Felicity Vanatta of Pennsgrove at 12:30 a.m. Oct. 8 outside a convenience store.

Police say she was hit by a stray bullet after an argument that broke out on the street.

“She was mortally wounded that night,” Vanor explained. “In the days following the murder, thanks to the video, we obtained a warrant for Spencer Mudgett.”

Mudgett was hit in the shoulder and was taken to the hospital in serious but stable condition.

“Mr. Mudgett was armed, we now know, with a .40 caliber firearm. The officers and Mr. Mudgett resigned,” Vanor said.

The officers were not injured. Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore praised the excellent work of the police to get the murder suspect off the street.