Salvation Army Major Shot Dead Christmas Eve
A Salvation Army major was shot dead Christmas Eve. The two suspects are still at large.
After 16 years of service at the Christian organization, Major Philip Wise, 40, was robbed and killed in front of his three young children outside The Salvation Army's center in North Little Rock.
"Our entire community is saddened by this horrible crime, particularly because it is a gentleman who has given so much to the community," said North Little Rock Chief of Police Danny Bradley Friday morning, according to Arkansas News."
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Police say the suspects are two armed black men in their late teens or early 20s and the motive was attempted robbery. Police are asking for help and posted a $1,000 award for information on the suspects. Another $1000 has been offered by two individuals.
"Investigators will be working through the weekend on this case and we'll have a relentless effort to try and find the people who committed this horrible crime," said Bradley, as reported by Today's THV.
Wise was reportedly picking up his wife, also a Salvation Army major, when he was shot. His children, who are aged 4, 6, and 8 and adopted just last year, were with him.
A memorial fund is being established for the Wise family and for a music camp for kids, in memory of Wise's love of music and youth camp. The late major ran youth programs, a food pantry and church services in the local community.
