Sgt. Richard Mendez shooting: Trial begins for men accused of killing Philadelphia police officer at airport
The trial began Tuesday for two men charged in the shooting death of Philadelphia Police Sgt. Richard Mendez . He was killed while investigating a car break-in at Philadelphia International Airport last year. His partner, Officer Raul Ortiz was injured.
Dozens of officers filled the third-floor courtroom at the Criminal Justice Center to support Mendez's family. The 50-year-old sergeant was shot on Oct. 12, 2023, inside the airport's parking garage.
"This is a moment we wish we weren't here for, but we are," said Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel, who attended part of the trial.
The defendants , 21-year-old Hendrick Pena-Fernandez and 18-year-old Yobranny Martinez Fernandez, face murder charges. A third suspect, 21-year-old Alexander Batista-Polanco, pleaded guilty last Friday and is expected to testify during the trial.
"We feel confident that we've created a strong case," said Bethel. "We feel confident in the team that presents that case."
Opening statements were delivered on Tuesday after the jury was seated. The defense emphasized the lack of surveillance footage from inside the parking garage where the shooting occurred. Prosecutors countered that cellphone data places the defendants at the scene.
Earlier this year, New Jersey's attorney general said the suspects were part of a multi-state auto theft ring.
Mendez's widow and other family members were present in court, joined by several widows of other slain officers.
"It also warms your heart to know they care for each other, and know how hard that is, to see them do that," Bethel said. "Even Officer Mendez's wife, she's helping others as she goes through her tragedy. Proud of them."
The trial is expected to last one week. If convicted, Pena-Fernandez and Martinez Fernandez could face life in prison
