Police Announce Arrest Of Suspect In South Philadelphia Double Murder
By Cherri Gregg and Natasha Brown
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Police arrested the man they say is responsible for a double murder in South Philadelphia on Tuesday. Authorities say the suspect - who has a long rap sheet - brutally stabbed a 78-year-old man, a 50-year-old woman and two dogs to death. (see related story)
Police say 31-year-old Omar Johnson was visiting 50-year-old Janet Burgess at an apartment she shared with 78-year-old Eugene Zappacosta in the 1300 Block of Dickinson Street. But when a confrontation between Johnson and Burgess turned physical, Johnson snapped.
"He pulled out a knife and stabbed her to death. The older man started to walk over and try to help her. He was then stabbed to death," said Philadelphia Police Captain James Clark.
Police say Johnson then turned his wrath on two small dogs barking nearby.
"The dogs were making a lot of noise and he didn't want the neighbors to hear, so he then unfortunately bludgeon and killed the dogs as well."
Authorities described Johnson and Burgess' relationship as friendly and say it is unclear what the fight was about.
Police say Johnson will be charged with murder and other crimes.
