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The Tragic Shooting of 12-Year-Old Thomas Siderio by Former Philadelphia Police Officer Edsaul Mendoza
In a heartbreaking turn of events, a former Philadelphia police officer, Edsaul Mendoza, pleaded guilty on Friday to fatally shooting an unarmed and fleeing 12-year-old boy, Thomas Siderio, in 2022. This shocking incident has left the community reeling and seeking justice for the young victim.
The Incident
The tragic incident took place on March 1, 2022, in Philadelphia, when four officers were on a surveillance detail. A bullet struck their unmarked car, prompting two of the officers to chase after Thomas Siderio and a 17-year-old boy he was with. Mendoza, one of the officers, shot Siderio in the back after witnessing the boy discard the gun he was carrying.
The Chase
Court documents reveal that the officers, in their unmarked car, passed by Siderio and the other boy before circling back to them. The plainclothed officers were not actively seeking either boy at the time. During the second pass, Siderio fired a shot at the vehicle, leading to Mendoza pursuing him in what authorities described as a “tactically unsound foot chase.” Mendoza fired two shots at Siderio, with one proving to be fatal.
The Outcome
Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner condemned Mendoza’s actions, stating that he knew Siderio, a small 12-year-old boy, no longer posed a threat after discarding his weapon. Despite this, Mendoza callously fired a shot through Siderio’s back, resulting in his tragic death. The plea deal reached by Mendoza covers charges of third-degree murder and possessing an instrument of crime.
Legal Action
Siderio’s grieving family has taken legal action by filing a federal lawsuit against Mendoza and the city of Philadelphia in January. The community has rallied behind the family in seeking justice and accountability for the senseless loss of a young life.
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[Featured image: Thomas Siderio/handout and Edsaul Mendoza/Philadelphia Police Department]
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