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Fitzgerald, a 31-year-old Temple University policeman and father of four, was fatally shot on Feb. 18 during an armed robbery on West Montgomery Avenue, authorities have said.
Eighteen-year-old Miles Pfeffer was arrested at his Buckingham Township home the following day using Fitzgerald's handcuffs. He was charged with murder, homicide of a law enforcement officer, VUFA, and related counts.
"District Attorney Krasner, consistent with his oath to seek justice and uphold the law, will not seek the death penalty in the case of Miles Pfeffer, who murdered Police Officer Fitzgerald," said spokesman Dustin Slaughter in a statement.
"This decision was made after extensive input over many hours from the family of Officer Fitzgerald, and from experts. (...) The input of the family is deeply appreciated and was carefully considered by the committee and DA Krasner prior to his decision," he wrote.
"The DAO looks forward to continuing to support the family’s needs and to vigorously prosecuting this terrible murder."
Through their lawyers, Fitzgerald's family has condemned the DA's decision, according to a WFMZ report. Daily Voice has reached out to the attorney of record to confirm this statement.
The Temple University Police Association called the news "absolutely devastating."
Fitzgerald became a Temple police officer in 2021, the university has said. In addition to his four children, he is survived by his wife.
Pfeffer's next court appearance is scheduled for Jul 31, according to judicial records.
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