On May 11, 2024, at approximately 4:45 p.m., 32-year-old Victoria Romulus was walking southbound along the 4800 block of North Broad Street in Philadelphia. During this time, an altercation occurred between two groups of males in the vicinity. One individual produced a handgun and fired several shots toward the other group. Tragically, a stray bullet struck Victoria in the back. She managed to run into a nearby deli, where she collapsed after uttering the word "help." Emergency responders transported her to Jefferson-Einstein Hospital, where she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
In the aftermath of the incident, Philadelphia Police faced challenges in locating evidence due to the distance between the shooting scene and where Victoria was found. Eventually, they discovered three spent shell casings more than a block away on the opposite side of the street. Surveillance footage released by the police showed the individuals involved in the altercation and the subsequent shooting. The footage depicted the groups scattering after the shots were fired, with one person losing a shoe in the process. Despite these leads, the suspects remained unidentified.
As of December 2024, no arrests have been made in connection with Victoria's death. The Philadelphia Police Department continues to seek the public's assistance in identifying the suspects involved. A reward of up to $20,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Philadelphia Police Department at 215-686-TIPS (8477).
Victoria's untimely death has left a profound impact on her family and community. Born on October 27, 1991, to Joseph Romulus and Irese Pierre, she was a loving daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and godmother. Her family remembers her as someone who lived life fully and had a significant impact on those she met. She is deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.