5 Facts Philadelphia Bombing

Introduction to the Philadelphia Bombing

The Philadelphia bombing, also known as the MOVE bombing, was a devastating event that occurred on May 13, 1985. It was a clash between the Philadelphia Police Department and the MOVE organization, a black liberation group. The incident resulted in the deaths of 11 people, including five children, and the destruction of 61 homes in the Cobbs Creek area of West Philadelphia. In this blog post, we will explore five key facts about the Philadelphia bombing, highlighting the events leading up to the tragedy, the bombing itself, and the aftermath.

Fact 1: The MOVE Organization

The MOVE organization was a black liberation group founded in 1972 by John Africa. The group’s name stood for “Movement for the Emancipation, Advancement, and Betterment of the Black Nation.” MOVE was known for its radical views on social justice, racism, and the environment. The group’s members lived communally and adopted a lifestyle that rejected modern society, including technology and conventional clothing.

Fact 2: Events Leading Up to the Bombing

Tensions between the Philadelphia Police Department and MOVE had been escalating for years. In 1978, a shootout between police and MOVE members resulted in the death of a police officer. Nine MOVE members were convicted of third-degree murder and sentenced to prison terms. By 1985, the police had been trying to evict MOVE from its headquarters in West Philadelphia due to complaints from neighbors about noise and sanitation issues. On May 13, 1985, the police arrived at the MOVE house to serve arrest warrants and evict the occupants.

Fact 3: The Bombing

After a long standoff, the police dropped a bomb on the MOVE house from a helicopter at around 5:30 pm. The bomb, made of Tovex, a commercial explosive, ignited a fire that quickly spread throughout the neighborhood. The police withheld water from the fire department, allowing the fire to burn for over an hour. The fire destroyed 61 homes, leaving over 250 people homeless.

Fact 4: Aftermath and Investigation

The bombing and subsequent fire resulted in the deaths of 11 people, including five children. Only two MOVE members survived the incident. The city of Philadelphia established a special investigation commission to investigate the bombing. The commission’s report found that the police had exercised poor judgment and that the bombing was unjustified. In 1996, a federal jury awarded $1.5 million in damages to the survivors of the bombing.

Fact 5: Legacy and Impact

The Philadelphia bombing had a profound impact on the city and the nation. It led to a re-evaluation of police tactics and the use of force in law enforcement. The incident also highlighted the need for community policing and greater understanding between law enforcement and minority communities. In 2020, the city of Philadelphia officially apologized for the bombing and established a memorial to the victims.

🔥 Note: The Philadelphia bombing is a tragic reminder of the importance of de-escalation techniques and community engagement in law enforcement.

In summary, the Philadelphia bombing was a devastating event that resulted in the loss of life, destruction of property, and a lasting impact on the city and the nation. The incident highlights the importance of accountability and reform in law enforcement, as well as the need for greater understanding and engagement between law enforcement and minority communities.