PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Nearly a week after two police officers were ambushed in West Philadelphia, investigators returned to the scene Friday to search for additional evidence.
City crews cut back weeds and brush around nearby properties, allowing officers to search for any missing evidence, with a focus on shell casings.
According to a detective at the scene, the work was aimed at ensuring the investigation was complete.
Police allege 35-year-old Eric Lewis ambushed officers Shane Seiber and Hector Rodriguez, killing Seiber and wounding Rodriguez.
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Resident Damon Barnes expressed sympathy for the officers and their families.
“I feel sorry for the officers. What can you do? Feel for the families,” Barnes said.
According to police, the officers were responding to a report of a man with a gun when Lewis approached them. A scuffle followed, and police say Lewis pulled out a gun and fired at the officers, continuing to shoot while they were on the ground.
Barnes said Lewis was often seen sitting on his porch with his dogs and described his demeanor.
“Always an attitude. Always an attitude. It’s hard to miss it. always an attitude. You just stay clear,” Barnes said.
The killing of Seiber marks another difficult chapter for the department. In the aftermath, questions have been raised about why Lewis was on the street.
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Lewis was acquitted in the 2019 murder of Christopher Williams during a road rage incident in the 900 block of N. Fallon Street.
Earlier this week, District Attorney Larry Krasner released a video statement blaming what he described as a deficient police investigation.
The Police Department said its focus remains on the officers and their families.
Seiber is scheduled to be laid to rest next week. A viewing will be held Monday at the Givnish Funeral Home in Northeast Philadelphia. A second viewing will be held at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, followed by a funeral service.
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