Attempted Murder Charge for Man Shot by Police

A Camden County man shot by police last month has been charged with the attempted murder of a Delanco police officer, authorities said Thursday.

According to the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office, Delanco Police responded to the 400 block of Delaware Avenue at 3:45 a.m. on May 14 after a neighbor called and said Eugene C. Taylor, 21, of Clementon, was walking in the street and yelling for people to “come to Jesus.” The resident got dressed and went outside, but was chased across his yard by Taylor, authorities said.

Officer Francisco Ambrifi responded, exited his patrol car and instructed Taylor to put his hands on the vehicle, but Taylor refused to comply, authorities said. Ambrifi used pepper spray, which failed to subdue Taylor. 

A struggle ensued, during which Taylor tried to take the officer’s gun, according to the prosecutor. Ambrifi fired, striking Taylor in the side and chest. One of the bullets struck Ambrifi near the left knee.

Philadelphia Police arrested Taylor, who was recently released from the hospital, Wednesday in the area of 6th and Hoffman streets in the city. He is being held on a fugitive warrant while awaiting an extradition hearing. Bail is set at $350,000.

Taylor was charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault, disarming a law enforcement officer, terroristic threats, resisting arrest, obstructing administration of law, disorderly conduct and harassment.

The incident is being investigated by the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, Crime Scene Unit and Special Investigations Unit, and the Delanco Police Department.

Information provided by the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office. An arrest does not indicate a conviction.