Bail rises for teen in officer's death
A Philadelphia judge yesterday increased from $250,000 to $5 million the bail for Andre Butler, the 16-year-old Mantua youth charged with third-degree murder and related crimes for allegedly driving the stolen car that killed a police officer.
A Philadelphia judge yesterday increased from $250,000 to $5 million the bail for Andre Butler, the 16-year-old Mantua youth charged with third-degree murder and related crimes for allegedly driving the stolen car that killed a police officer.
Municipal Court Judge Patrick F. Dugan granted a request by defense attorney Brian F. Humble to postpone Butler's preliminary hearing until Dec. 3. But on his own initiative, Dugan ordered the increase in the youth's bail, Assistant District Attorney John Doyle said.
Police allege that Butler, wanted since June for failing to appear at a Family Court hearing, was driving a stolen 1999 Cadillac Escalade in West Philadelphia about 9:30 p.m. Friday when officers spotted him driving erratically and began pursuing.
At 39th and Wallace Streets, police said, Butler broadsided one of the pursuing police cars, killing Officer Isabel Nazario and severely injuring her partner, Officer Terry Tull.
Nazario, 40, an 18-year veteran, died at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania of massive head trauma. She leaves behind a 13-year-old daughter, Jazmin; her mother, Patricia Rodriguez Santiago; a sister, Officer Maritza Mohamad; and her fiance, Officer Carlos Buitrago.
Viewings Set For Slain Officer
Two viewings have been scheduled for Officer Isabel Nazario.
The first will be from 6 to 9 tonight at the John F. Givnish Funeral Home, 10975 Academy Rd., Northeast Philadelphia.
The second will be at 7:30 a.m. tomorrow at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul, 18th Street and the Parkway. It will be followed by a Funeral Mass at noon. Interment will be in her native Puerto Rico.
A trust fund has been set up for her family. Donations may be sent to the Isabel Nazario Family Memorial Trust Fund, Police & Fire Federal Credit Union, 901 Arch St., Philadelphia 19107.
Donations may also be dropped off at the 24th and 25th Police District Office, 3901 Whitaker Ave., or any branch of the credit union, including 7604 City Ave., 8500 Henry Ave., 3338 S. Broad St., Leo Mall at Byberry and Bustleton Avenue, 7500 Castor Ave., and 3330 Grant Ave.