Philadelphia DA Krasner's Response to College Student Murder Draws Criticism
Penn State senior William J. Schmidt was fatally shot during a robbery attempt in Philadelphia on Saturday night. District Attorney Larry Krasner has made limited public statements about the case, drawing criticism for his muted response compared to his more forceful rhetoric on other issues. The case highlights debates over prosecutorial priorities and public accountability in high-profile crimes.
Twenty-two-year-old William J. Schmidt, a Penn State University senior, was shot and killed during an apparent robbery in South Philadelphia. Security camera footage captured the moments leading up to the shooting, and Schmidt was pronounced dead at a local hospital. District Attorney Larry Krasner has made few public statements about the murder, and when he did comment, he offered philosophical remarks about crime management rather than specific commitments to prosecution. Critics argue his response contrasts sharply with his more aggressive public statements on other issues, including threats to arrest ICE officers and criticism of federal immigration enforcement. The case has drawn national attention and sparked debate about prosecutorial priorities and the DA's public engagement with violent crime in his jurisdiction.
What's missing
The article does not provide details on the current status of the investigation, whether suspects have been identified or arrested, or the specific charges being pursued. It also lacks context on Philadelphia's broader crime trends or comparative data on the DA's prosecution record for homicides versus other cases.
What different sources said
- Washington ExaminerRight
Philadelphia district attorney, who ranted about arresting ICE, says little about murdered college student
Related
Widow sues cemetery after husband's casket drops during burial in Queens, New York
An 82-year-old widow filed a negligence lawsuit against Washington Memorial Park in Queens after cemetery employees allegedly dropped her husband's casket during burial on May 28, 2025, causing his remains to fall from the casket in front of family members. The complaint alleges the cemetery failed to properly maintain its casket lowering device and violated New York Public Health Law guidelines for handling deceased bodies. The widow is seeking damages for severe emotional distress, psychological injury, and loss of sepulcher rights.
Texas City Sells Donated Parkland to Data Center Developer Despite Original Deed Restrictions
A 87-acre parcel in Taylor, Texas, donated by a farmer in 1999 with deed restrictions requiring it to be used as community parkland, was sold by the city to a data center developer for $10 million in 2025. The land passed through multiple entities over 26 years before being sold to Blueprint, a data center company that has won legal battles against local residents opposing the project. Local residents are planning to appeal the decision, citing concerns about environmental impacts and the violation of the original donor's intent.
Five People Stabbed in Penn Station Attack; Suspect Apprehended
A homeless man with a criminal history stabbed five people at Penn Station before being apprehended by law enforcement. The incident has prompted public debate about transit safety, homelessness, and policing policies in New York City. The attack raises questions about security measures and resource allocation for protecting commuters in public transit systems.