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Philadelphia Police Open Investigation Into Roosevelt Boulevard Beating After Victim Speaks Out
Philadelphia police have launched an active investigation into a violent Oct. 30 beating on Roosevelt Boulevard that left a man hospitalized for five days, after the victim said officers initially failed to take a report. Detectives are now working to secure warrants, but the victim says he won't feel safe until his attackers face a judge.
Philadelphia police have opened an active investigation into a violent attack on Roosevelt Boulevard in the Olney neighborhood that left a man hospitalized for five days, after the victim publicly raised concerns that officers had failed to act.
Saintilus Metelus says he was beaten by several people following a rear-end crash on Oct. 30. Cellphone video captured the assault, which occurred as Metelus waited for first responders to arrive. According to Metelus, several people from the vehicle that struck him attacked him while he was stopped.
Speaking in his native Haitian Creole, Metelus said officers responded to the scene but did not take a report about the assault or provide him with documentation of the incident. His family told reporters they tried to contact police about the attack immediately after it happened.
Police say the incident occurred Oct. 30 but was not reported to the department until Nov. 10 â a gap that has raised questions about how the initial response was handled.
Metelus, who is now recovering at home, says he is still experiencing pain from his injuries. He also says detectives have been in contact with him since his account became public earlier this week.
Despite that progress, Metelus says he remains concerned for his safety and will not feel safe until his attackers are found and brought before a judge.
Philadelphia police told reporters that detectives are making good progress in the investigation and are working to secure warrants. The department has not announced any arrests or named any suspects.
The case highlights persistent concerns about how violent incidents are documented and investigated in Philadelphia neighborhoods, and about whether victims â particularly those with limited English proficiency â receive adequate support from the criminal justice system. For residents of Olney and surrounding communities, the episode underscores the importance of prompt police response and transparent reporting.
Anyone with information about the Oct. 30 attack is urged to contact Philadelphia police.