20-year-old Xavier Arnold shot and killed by Allentown Police officer

On Friday, 10 February 2023, at approx. 8:09 pm, members of the Allentown Police Department witnessed an individual being assaulted in the area of 8th St. and Maple St. Patrol officers gave chase to the suspect at which point the suspect brandished a firearm and fired at officers.

An Allentown Police Officer did return fire, striking the suspect.

The Lehigh County District Attorney, Jim Martin, informed FOX3 that the Allentown Police Department was responsible for the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Xavier Arnold from Coplay, during a shootout that took place on Friday night.

Officers rendered aid on scene and the suspect was transported by Allentown EMS to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

One of the officers was apparently struck by a projectile that penetrated his uniform shirt and nicked his protective vest. Fortunately, the officer was not injured.

LEHIGH COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY JIM MARTIN

This investigation is ongoing and is being conducted by the Allentown Police Department, the Lehigh County Homicide Task Force, Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office, and the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office.

The Allentown Police Department is asking anyone with information to call Detectives at 610-437-7721 or the Police Desk at 610-437-7753 (ext. 1). Additionally, anonymous text tips can be sent via the Tip411 App available on the Allentown Police Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/allentownpolice) or via the Allentown Police Department website at https://www.allentownpa.gov/Police.