Crystal Marie Roman-Benitez, a 23-year-old woman of Hispanic ethnicity, was tragically murdered on September 10, 2019, in Philadelphia, PA. She was sitting on the front porch of her home on the 2500 block of North 9th Street when an unidentified gunman opened fire. Roman-Benitez was shot in the head and succumbed to her injuries at Temple University Hospital later that evening.
The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m., and it was determined that she was likely an innocent bystander, not the intended target.
The investigation revealed that the shooter may have been inside a dark-colored vehicle and fired multiple shots. Police collected two types of shell casings at the scene, suggesting that the intended targets might have been involved in some form of conflict. A 54-year-old man who was also not the intended target suffered a graze wound and was treated at Temple University Hospital. Surveillance video from the area was reviewed, but no arrests have been made, and the weapon used in the shooting has not been recovered.
Philadelphia Police Commissioner Christine Coulter stated that the case remains unsolved, and the department is actively seeking information from the public. Despite the ongoing investigation, no suspects have been identified, and the case remains open. The community held a vigil for Roman-Benitez, remembering her as a friendly young mother who left behind a young daughter.
The tragic death of Crystal Roman-Benitez highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence in urban areas and the devastating impact it has on innocent lives. The Philadelphia Police Department continues to urge anyone with information to come forward and assist in bringing justice for Roman-Benitez and her family.
