Philadelphia police officer charged with murder in Eddie Irizarry killing

Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner announced criminal charges against the police officer who shot and killed a man in Kensington last month.

Suspended Philadelphia police officer Mark Dial is accused of murder, voluntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, and official oppression.

Dial, who turned himself in on Friday, has been arrested and faces decades behind bars on murder charges.

Dial is accused of fatally shooting 27-year-old Eddie Irizarry Jr. on August 14 around noon. Police body camera video reviewed by Irizarry’s family was publicly released at their request, it shows that Irizarry was sitting in his vehicle holding a knife to his thigh when officer Dial shot him several times.

Krasner said he released the video because it was in the public’s interest.

“To let people see what happened on a sunny Street in Philadelphia in a public place and what was done by law enforcement officers who work for the taxpayer,” he said. “We try our very best to be fair and be even-handed but we will not cover up for power.”

Police initially claimed that Irizarry was pulled over for erratic driving, got out of his car, and lunged at police with a knife before he was shot and killed.

Mayor Jim Kenney says that he understands watching the police body camera video is disturbing and may “provoke anger and upset in our communities.”

Kenney asked the public to “remain peaceful in demonstrations and calls for accountability as we continue to process this tragedy as a city.”

Outgoing Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw suspended officer Dial in late August.

There’s still an administrative investigation underway inside the police department.

“We will conclude our administrative investigation as soon as possible to ensure justice and closure is attained for all affected by the death of Mr. Irizarry,” Outlaw said in a statement.

Philadelphia council member for District 7, Quetcy Lozada, said in a statement that she thanked the District Attorney’s officer for prioritizing the case “with the urgency it deserves and [Krasner’s] commitment delivering the accountability we asked for.”

Graphic content warning: The following videos may not be suitable for all audiences. Discretion is advised.