Murder, More Charges Filed In Deadly Macy's Double Stabbing: Philly DA

PHILADELPHIA — Murder and related charges have been filed in connection with the deadly stabbing at the Center City Macy's store that occurred Monday.

Tyrone Garcell Tunnell, 30, is charged with murder, attempted murder, and simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, possession of an instrument of crime, tampering with evidence, and retail theft, the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office said Tuesday.

Authorities said Tunnell tried to steal items from the store at about 10:45 a.m. Monday, but was stopped by employees and turned over the merchandise. But about 15 minutes later, authorities said he came back to the store and assaulted two security guards with a knife.

One of the guards has been identified as Eric Harrison, 27. The DA's office said Harrison was stabbed once in the neck and later pronounced deceased at Jefferson Hospital.

"We are heartbroken about the incident that took place today at Macy's Center City," Macy's said in a statement after the incident. "The store will temporarily remain closed as we work with law enforcement on this investigation and defer any further comments about the case to them. Ensuring the safety and well-being of our customers and colleagues is always our top priority."

The other guard, a 23-year-old male, is in stable condition and recovering from wounds to his face and arm.

SEPTA Police took Tunnell into custody after he fled the area and was tracked using video surveillance, the DA's office said. Police also found the knife Tunnell is accused of using in the incident.

"The attack of two security guards at the Macy's in Center City yesterday has left all of Philadelphia with heavy hearts during what is supposed to be a joyous season," Interim Police Commissioner John M. Stanford Jr. said. "This agony is even more pronounced for the victims and their families. I am thankful for the quick actions of the officers that responded to the scene and transported the victims to Jefferson, as well as the quick actions of SEPTA police in tracking and apprehending this dangerous offender."

According to the DA's office, Tunnell has a history of mostly retail theft and drug-related cases in Philadelphia, Bucks, Delaware, and Montgomery counties. Tunnell had an arrest warrant in Delaware County before Monday's incident, the DA's office said.

Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner thanked SEPTA Transit Police and Philadelphia Police for their quick work in apprehending Tunnell.

"Like the scores of people who visit and shop in Philadelphia during what is for many a joyful time of year, I am shocked and heartbroken by the murder of a department store employee and violent assault of another, all for doing their jobs in support of the safety and peace of co-workers and customers," Krasner said. "My office’s victims support staff have reached out to the surviving victim and to Mr. Harrison’s survivors to offer assistance. While our team of Homicide prosecutors and detectives work toward ensuring accountability for this defendant, my office will continue to collaborate with partners in law enforcement, government, and the business community to improve conditions and safety for workers in Philadelphia."

"SEPTA’s thoughts are with the victims, their families, and loved ones at this difficult time," SEPTA CEO/General Manager Leslie Richards said. "We are grateful for the efforts of the SEPTA Transit Police, who acted immediately to identify the suspect and take him into custody without further incident. SEPTA will continue working with the District Attorney’s Office and Philadelphia Police moving forward."