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Police Release Motive, New Details In Shooting Death Of Man Walking Dog In Overbrook Park

By Walt Hunter

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Philadelphia Police now say surveillance video and investigation reveal that 51-year-old James Stuhlman was randomly targeted by three robbers who shot and killed him as he walked his dog a few doors from his home in the 6400 block of Woodcrest Avenue in Overbrook Park Thursday evening.

Capt. James Clark, who leads the Philadelphia Police Homicide Unit, told CBS 3's Walt Hunter, "this was, in fact, an attempted robbery, by three males wearing hoodies and backpacks."

Capt. Clark explained the three, at first, stalked another dog walker, but then turned their attention to Stuhlman, following him, and shooting him in the chest, in an attempted robbery that apparently got them little or nothing. The victim's wallet, cash and jewelry were found at the scene.

Captain Clark told Hunter police are now working to enhance surveillance video so they can get a clearer picture of the killers.

Until the three are caught, the Captain cautioned that neighbors should be extra alert, keeping a close eye on each other.

Stuhlman's pet dog Molly was found by police who rushed to the scene, along with his flashlight, which was still on.

Police say many nights Stuhlman, who co-owned a landscaping company, often walked his dog with his young daughter at his side.  Investigators say Thursday night, because of the late hour, he told his daughter to stay inside. The decision, police believe, might well have saved her life.

A reward of more than $22,000 is now being offered. Anyone with information should call the Homicide Unit at 215-686-3334 or dial 215-546-TIPS.

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