Homicide Arrest Made After 20-month Investigation

The end of April 2022 brought an end to an extensive homicide investigation as Detective Ryan Burgett filed criminal homicide charges on an adult man.

In September 2020, members of the Lancaster City Bureau of Police were called to a shooting in the 500 block of East End Avenue. Detectives immediately began an investigation by looking for cameras, canvassing for witnesses, and examining evidence. The shooting victim, who was initially transported to a local hospital for treatment, succumbed to their injuries several days later. 

At the onset of the investigation, it was known that it would not be easy. Throughout the next year and a half, Detective Ryan Burgett worked tirelessly in uncovering additional evidence and speaking with person after person in an attempt to connect all of the information together. From this, a suspect was developed.

Several months into the investigation, and with the assistance of Detective Toby Hickey, a major breakthrough in the case was made. Detective Burgett seized the opportunity and left no stone unturned. The lead to the discovery of additional persons of interests and investigative routes to explore.

Further assistance in the investigation came from Officer Christopher Kophamel and Officer Michael Schwebel when they made a traffic stop in January 2022. The passenger, the suspect of the shooting, was arrested on an outstanding probation warrant and found in possession of a handgun and a large amount of prescription medication.

His hard work paid off and on April 29th Detective Burgett filed charges of criminal homicide and persons not to possess firearms against the male. The accused is an extremely dangerous individual and he will now be out of our community thanks to the hard work of Detective Burgett and many other members of the Lancaster City Police.

Catalytic Converter Thieves Caught Grease-Handed

An aware citizen called police to the area of N Mary Street and W Frederick Street as they saw that a catalytic converter was being stolen from a parked car. Officers quickly responded to the surrounding area to search for the culprits.

As they arrived, officers were able to provide a description of the vehicle that was involved in the theft. Shortly after this, Officer Christopher Kophamel spotted the car and was able to stop and identify the two adult males inside. Looking inside the car, Officer Kophamel recognized the tools used in the theft were inside and the two men inside were covered in grease and road debris. Officer Kophamel later found more tools, as well as the convertor, inside the vehicle.

A quick response, attention to detail, and good teamwork made this great arrest possible. Thank you to all the officers involved!