Governor Shapiro has no plans to activate National Guard in Philly amid recent violence, SEPTA shootings
Governor Shapiro reacts to recent violence in Philadelphia
Governor Shapiro expresses his concerns after 11 juveniles were shot and injured during a recent series of separate SEPTA bus-related incidents. Despite his concern on the recent violence, Shapiro has no plan to activate the Pa. National Guard on subways and buses.
PHILADELPHIA - Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro told FOX 29 there is no plan to activate the Pennsylvania National Guard on subways and buses in light of recent violence in Philadelphia. But he did say help may be on the way in funding under his new budget.
"It doesn’t have to be this way" said Shapiro still reeling over the mass shooting of 8 teenagers Wednesday at a SEPTA bus stop in Northeast Philadelphia.
He was speaking at a higher education budget event at West Chester University but couldn’t ignore what happened to future college students a day before.
"I do not accept this as normal. These kids should have gotten home yesterday. They should not have been shot on the streets of Philadelphia," Shapiro added.
SEPTA riders shaken up after series of shootings on or around Philly public transportation
SEPTA riders express their frustrations and anxiety with taking Philly's public transportation following a series of separate shootings that occurred in or around buses. Including, a mass shooting that left 8 students injured.
After the afternoon shooting, Mayor Cherelle Parker said she wanted all available resources to keep kids and the transit system safe. But that won’t include the National Guard.
The Governor said there is $100 million dollars in his budget for civic and neighborhood programs to curb gun violence statewide. His budget also calls for more money for schools.
Earlier this week, New York’s governor called in the National Guard to assist with issues with its transit system.
"I’d like to see SEPTA Police handle SEPTA Police problems" said Troy Parham, Vice President of the Fraternal Order of Transit Police Lodge #109.
Parham doesn’t feel the need for the National Guard either, he just wants more sworn officers on the street and more vehicles to respond to crimes faster.
"If we can hire 500 cops, then let's push efforts in that direction. Let’s push efforts in retaining the cops we have," added Parham.
Philadelphia police records show homicides have decreased by more than 30 percent since 2023 and overall violent crime is down nearly 13 percent. Despite the promising numbers, the governor says when kids can’t get to school safely there’s still a problem.
"We got to come together on this and say it’s not OK. And I’ll work with anyone, Democrat, Republican alike that wants to save the lives of our kids and those losing their lives on the streets every day," added the Governor.
The governor is speaking with Mayor Parker about a possible increase in the presence of the Pennsylvania State Police as needed in higher risk areas.