Watch CBS News

FBI: Philadelphia Police Officer Ambush Being Investigated As Terrorist Attack

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) --  The FBI has confirmed it is now investigating the ambush shooting of Philadelphia Police Officer Jesse Hartnett as a terrorist attack.

"In trying to understand as we do in all these cases, what were the motivations and often it's a tangled web we have to untangle," FBI Director James Comey said. "What are the motivations, who directed or inspired an individual, if anyone, and who else might have been involved. That's the work we do and that's the work we're doing right now in this case."

Edward Archer allegedly confessed to shooting Officer Hartnett quote "in the name of Islam".

Authorities are also investigating a tip that Archer is part of a larger group of radicals who may pose a threat to officers.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.