Accident – Death – Obituary News :

A Man Charged After Fatal Fight on SEPTA Platform in Philadelphia

A man has been charged following a tragic incident on a SEPTA platform in the University City section of Philadelphia, where a fight resulted in the victim falling onto the tracks and being struck by a train. The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office has identified the accused as 40-year-old Chaz Wearing, who is currently in custody and facing charges of involuntary manslaughter.

Wearing, who has no fixed address, also has a warrant in a strangulation case in Delaware County. In addition, his criminal history extends to other Pennsylvania counties, including Clinton County and Lycoming County. These details highlight the accused’s prior involvement with the law.

SEPTA’s Chief of Police Chuck Lawson emphasized that both individuals involved in the incident were not utilizing the transit system for its intended purpose. This suggests that the altercation did not arise from typical commuting or travel-related circumstances.

The tragic incident unfolded at approximately 4:30 p.m. on Thursday at the 34th Street Station. Video footage circulating on social media captures the altercation between two males, which is now under investigation by the police. The video reveals one of the men throwing a punch that causes the other to fall onto the tracks. Tragically, moments later, a train on the Market-Frankford Line strikes and kills the victim.

Following the incident, SEPTA spokespersons informed Action News that the assailant seen throwing the punch, identified as Chaz Wearing, was apprehended at the intersection of 40th and Market streets.

Chief of Police Lawson revealed that the offender in this case has a significant criminal history, with prior encounters in the criminal justice system. Conversely, the victim had no prior contacts with law enforcement but did possess a lengthy criminal record.

At present, the identity of the deceased victim remains unknown, pending further investigation and notification of family members.

Chief Lawson expressed the swift response time of transit police officers stationed at the station during the incident. However, he acknowledged that violence on the transit system is an ongoing concern.

Commenting on the matter, Jennifer McCray from Upper Darby stated, “It’s not too surprising. It has increased a lot in the past few years, especially post-pandemic. I think there could be more police presence to contain the crowd and violence.” McCray’s statement reflects the growing public concern regarding safety and the need for enhanced security measures.

SEPTA has acknowledged the issue and is actively working on a plan to engage with unhoused individuals using their system. However, there are legal limitations to what the transport authority can do independently to address the broader societal challenges associated with homelessness.

Chief Lawson emphasized that resolving these problems requires collaborative efforts beyond the capabilities of the transit police department and SEPTA as a whole. He called for external support to effectively tackle the issue.

Police are continuing their investigation to determine the root cause of the altercation. Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist with the ongoing inquiry.

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