READING, Pa. — Orlando Rodriguez, 32, was shot in Reading early last Thursday morning, and the police said Wednesday they have reason to believe people are out there who can help solve the case.
RPD officers were dispatched to Reading Hospital around 1:30 a.m. on June 16 for the report of a shooting victim seeking treatment.
“Officers responded and learned that the victim was suffering from multiple gunshot wounds,” said Trevor Atkins, an RPD investigator, who added that Rodriguez was shot in the 600 block of North 10th Street.
Police said Rodriguez was dropped off at the hospital, where he later died from his wounds. Now, investigators are seeking answers.
“We recovered surveillance footage from our city-owned cameras, and at the time of the incident,” Atkins said, “it appears that there were individuals in the block that don’t appear to be involved right now but may have witnessed something.”
A makeshift memorial consisting of balloons, candles and flowers has taken shape on the sidewalk on North 10th Street. It is a sight that one neighbor said is becoming all too common across the city.
“I almost cried,” the neighbor commented. “I don’t even know who the people are, but it’s sad to see that stuff.”
And now, he’s calling for unity.
“We are human beings,” he stated, “and we have to stay together and make sure everyone is good.”
Reading police said they’re are encouraging anyone with information, even if it is minor, to reach out to them at 610-655-6116. They also noted all tips can be submitted anonymously.