UPDATE: A Philadelphia school safety officer, Craig Romanczuk, who was shot 11 times, shared his incredible survival story in court today as the accused shooter faced justice. “I don’t know why I’m still alive,” Romanczuk revealed, highlighting the extraordinary nature of his recovery.
The shocking incident unfolded on June 30, 2023, near Penn’s Landing, when Romanczuk was mistakenly flagged down for help by a victim of road rage. As he stepped out of his vehicle, a suspect opened fire, hitting him multiple times. “As soon as I stepped out, I was shot three times,” he recounted. The relentless barrage of bullets targeted his arms, torso, neck, and face, leaving him critically injured.
Officer Romanczuk, a retired member of the Philadelphia Police Department, detailed how he miraculously managed to shift his car into drive despite the severe injuries. The vehicle eventually crashed into a tree, and first responders rushed him to the hospital, where he spent two months recovering.
In an emotional interview at the School District of Philadelphia’s office in Spring Garden, Romanczuk’s voice was soft, a result of a bullet paralyzing one of his vocal cords. Yet, his spirit remains unbroken. “Now I know that there’s a God because I could feel all my coworkers and family praying for me,” he said, reflecting on how his faith has been strengthened through this harrowing ordeal.
Today, the suspect appeared in court, where his ongoing eligibility for bail raised concerns for Romanczuk. “I don’t understand that because I was in the hospital for two months,” he stated, emphasizing the emotional toll this has taken on him and his family.
Despite the challenges ahead, including more surgeries, Romanczuk remains resolute. “Life is good,” he affirmed, expressing gratitude for the support he has received. This incident not only highlights the dangers faced by officers but also underscores the resilience of the human spirit.
As the community rallies around Officer Romanczuk, his story serves as a powerful reminder of survival against all odds. The legal proceedings against the accused shooter are ongoing, and Romanczuk is determined to fight for justice as he continues on his path to recovery.
