September 10, 2022
In the wake of the murder of Tiffany Fletcher, killed by a stray bullet while working outside of Mill Creek Recreation Center, and the ongoing scourge of gun violence, PFT President Jerry Jordan issued the following statement:
PHILADELPHIA—"We grieve for Tiffany Fletcher’s children and all of her loved ones, and for all impacted by this horrific tragedy and by the ongoing devastation of gun violence. For Ms. Fletcher’s life to be cut short because of a stray bullet while she was working at a community recreation center is just unconscionable. To Ms. Fletcher’s family, and to all that knew and loved her, I offer my deepest sympathy on behalf of the PFT.
"To know that a fourteen year old is in custody should shock, sadden, and horrify all of us.
"The ongoing impact of this deadly crisis—having unfolded in broad daylight and taken the life of a beloved mother, is too much to bear. The depths of this crisis, one that disproportionately impacts Black and brown people, appears to have no limits.
"We can, and must, do more. We know that solutions like banning assault rifles, making gun ownership requirements more stringent, and truly investing in community services and public education will engender meaningful change.
"Our kids, our loved ones, and our communities at large simply cannot wait. On the same days as Ms. Fletcher's murder, a 12 year old was injured in a shooting. And on Saturday, the city reached 379 homicides, including two more tragic killings since Friday night.
"We must address this emergency. Every day that goes by is a day too long."