A former Philadelphia police officer, Edsaul Mendoza, has pleaded guilty to murder in the shooting of a fleeing 12-year-old boy, Thomas 'T.J.' Siderio. The incident occurred in March 2022, with prosecutors stating that Siderio was on the ground and unarmed when the fatal shot was fired by Mendoza.
Mendoza also pleaded guilty to possession of an instrument of crime as part of a plea deal with the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office. The sentencing date for Mendoza has not been disclosed at this time.
The shooting took place when Mendoza and three other plainclothes officers were in an unmarked car, searching for a teenager related to a firearm investigation. They encountered Siderio and another individual, leading to a confrontation that resulted in Siderio being shot by Mendoza.
Following the incident, Mendoza was fired by then-Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw for violating department policy. The District Attorney's office had initially charged Mendoza with first- and third-degree murder and voluntary manslaughter, citing video evidence that contradicted the officer's account of the events.
According to authorities, Siderio had thrown a gun away before being shot and either tripped or followed a command to get down. Mendoza pursued Siderio and fired two shots, hitting the boy once in the back from close range.
The shooting resulted in injuries to one of the officers inside the car, who was treated for glass-related injuries to his eye and face. Siderio's family later filed a lawsuit against Mendoza and the city, alleging that the incident was a result of systemic failures within the police department.
This case has raised concerns about police conduct and use of force, highlighting the importance of accountability and transparency in law enforcement actions.
