Posted February 21, 2023

Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez issued the following statement Feb. 21 on the death of Temple University Police Officer Christopher Fitzgerald who was fatally shot on Feb 18. while trying to stop a robbery in North Philadelphia. 

A viewing for Fitzgerald will be held on Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the John F. Givnish Funeral Home on Academy Road. There will also be a second viewing on Friday from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. The funeral service will be held immediately after that viewing.

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I was deeply saddened to learn that Temple University Police Officer Christopher Fitzgerald was shot and killed in the line of duty on Saturday night.

In the name of the people of the Church in Philadelphia, I extend my prayerful condolences to Officer Fitzgerald’s parents, widow, children, friends, and all those who mourn this tragic loss.

I have asked the priests, deacons, religious, and lay faithful of the Archdiocese to join me in praying for the happy repose of Officer Fitzgerald’s soul and that God may bring peace and consolation to all those suffering at this painful moment for our city. May the Lord pour His mercy upon them and hold them in His loving embrace.

Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia