Just days before Christmas, a quiet Philadelphia church became the target of a brazen act. A man was caught on camera attempting to steal from the very heart of Our Mother of Consolation Church – the “poor box,” a vital source of aid for those in need.
The incident unfolded on the afternoon of December 20th. Surveillance footage revealed the suspect surreptitiously breaking into the donation container, a fund particularly crucial during the holiday season when many families struggle.
The would-be thief’s actions were abruptly interrupted by an unexpected witness: the resident priest. Hearing a disturbance from his second-floor bedroom, the priest descended to investigate and directly confronted the intruder.
Startled by the priest’s appearance, the suspect immediately fled the church. He was last seen heading north on Germantown Avenue, disappearing into the bustling city streets.
Despite the attempted theft, authorities confirmed the “poor box” was, thankfully, empty at the time. Nothing was ultimately taken, but the violation of a sacred space intended for charity left a mark on the community.
Police describe the suspect as a Black male with a bald head, last seen wearing a distinctive red hooded sweatshirt, blue jeans, and white sneakers. Detectives are actively working to identify the individual responsible.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact 911 immediately, but caution residents against approaching the suspect themselves. The investigation remains ongoing as the community prepares to celebrate Christmas.
