Death – Obituary – Accident and Crime News : Family Identifies Victim of Macy’s Stabbing as Hardworking Man Saving for a House
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — The family of the man who tragically lost his life in the stabbing incident at Macy’s in Philadelphia has identified him as 27-year-old Eric Harrison. According to his family, Harrison was working two jobs, including one at the department store, to save up money for a house. The devastating news has left his loved ones in disbelief and heartbreak.
“I feel like I’m in a dream,” expressed Tyree Harrison-Harvey, the victim’s aunt. “I’m waiting for somebody to just tap me and say, ‘OK, it’s over. It was a joke.'” She described the situation as a nightmare that no family should have to endure. Harrison was simply doing his job when he was fatally stabbed.
Harrison-Harvey emphasized that her nephew was not involved in any wrongdoing. “He wasn’t out on the street. He wasn’t on the corner,” she said. “He wasn’t battling anyone, he was at work.” The Macy’s store where the incident occurred on Market Street in Center City remains closed, with strangers paying their respects by leaving flowers at the entrance.
Describing Harrison’s character, his aunt shared fond memories of his friendly and helpful nature. “The people at Macy’s, he would call them ‘auntie.’ He would always have a joke,” she reminisced. “Always welcome people in. Always wanting to help someone.”
Harrison-Harvey revealed that her nephew was working long hours in order to save money and move out of her house in Lawncrest. He worked at the post office overnight and four days a week as a security guard at Macy’s. He had been a familiar face at the store for the past two years.
“He was everything to us,” Harrison-Harvey said, highlighting the close-knit nature of their family. As they grapple with the horrific events, they are seeking solace in the community’s prayers. “Prayers make us stronger,” she added.
Meanwhile, Macy’s released a statement announcing the closure of the store to the public as its employees embark on the healing process. The company has also made counselors available to provide support. Law enforcement agencies continue their investigation, and Macy’s is deferring any additional comments on the case to them.
The family remains puzzled as to why the suspect, Tyrone Tunnell, would commit such a senseless act. Harrison-Harvey expressed her disbelief, saying, “We let you go. Gave you a pass. And you came back? And then come to find out I heard that my nephew wasn’t even the one who stopped him. It was someone else, and then you stabbed my nephew.”
She concluded with a plea to would-be criminals, urging them to consider the consequences of their actions. “I just want the thieves to think about not just you stealing and coming, robbing somewhere or stealing merchandise, you’re robbing people’s lives,” she said. “You’re robbing the family.”