Philadelphia journalist was killed by a teenager he was “trying to help”

Philadelphia journalist Josh Kruger who was fatally shot in his home was an acquaintance of the alleged killer and was “trying to help him live life,” authorities said.

Identified as Robert Davis, 19, he is being prosecuted by Philadelphia police for Kruger’s death in the Point Breeze neighborhood.

The gunman allegedly shot the journalist seven times in the chest and abdomen as he stood on the stairs inside his home at 1:30 a.m. Monday as the young man fled the scene.

Kruger, who was 39 years old, left his residence in search of help before falling on the cement of a sidewalk where he was found and rushed to a hospital, but was pronounced dead just under an hour later.

“At this time we believe that Mr. Kruger was trying to help Mr. Davis, and they were acquaintances,” said Philadelphia Police Department Lt. Hamilton Marshmond. “I was just trying to help him live life.”

Additionally, an arrest warrant was issued for Davis, who was wanted for “murder and related crimes,” the New York Post reported.

Officials noted there was footage showing the suspect in the area of ​​Kruger’s home before the shooting, but no specific location was given.

A motive for the shooting was also not provided.

Kruger served as a City Hall employee where he worked as communications director for the city’s Office of Homeless Services from 2016 to 2021.

After going through public service, he dedicated himself to writing freelance articles and editorials for outlets such as the Philadelphia Inquirer and Philadelphia Citizen on issues such as homelessness and issues about the LGBTIQ+ community.

Following his physical disappearance, the Philadelphia prosecutor remembered Kruger as an “openly queer writer who wrote about his own journey surviving substance use disorder and homelessness.”

“Josh deserved to write the end of his personal story. “As with all homicides, we will be in close contact with Philadelphia Police as they work to identify the person or persons responsible so they can be held accountable in a court of law,” said Larry Krasner.

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