Jurors Shown Video, Graphic Crime Scene Photos Of Ambush Shooting Of Philly Cop
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — A jury in the trial of Edward Archer heard testimony and was shown video of the ambush shooting that wounded Philadelphia Police Officer Jesse Hartnett.
It was an emotionally exhausting day one of the trial as Hartnett and his family members did not comment outside of the courthouse.
Hartnett was shot while sitting in his patrol car two years ago at 60th and Spruce Streets in West Philadelphia.
Archer, 32, is facing attempted murder charges for the crime, police say, he confessed to shortly after the incident.
"You saw that video, 13 rounds fired at close range and him able to exit that vehicle and defend himself is nothing short of miraculous to me," said Philadelphia Police Commissioner Richard Ross.
Jurors got to see the video of the shooting that was all captured on a street camera, along with dozens of graphic crime scene photos of the officer's bullet-riddled car and blood-stained clothes.
However, a radio call evoked the most emotional response from Harnett's family and fellow officers.
"Shots fired, shots fired," Harnett said in the radio call. "I've been hit, I'm bleeding heavily."
"This is a major trial that we're dealing with, and as was stated inside, the attempted assassination of a Philadelphia police officer, two days after I was sworn in as a matter of fact, I will never forget it," said Ross.
The jury also got to hear from the defendant who claims the shooting was inspired by ISIS. When asked about his plea, he said to the judge, "I don't plead to anyone but Allah."
The trial is expected to last several days.
Archer has not been cooperating with his court-appointed attorneys.
