News (USA)

Philadelphia man targeted by exploding package is one of us

Philadelphia man targeted by exploding package is one of us
Photo: WPVI

Neighbors have returned home to the apartment house where a Philadelphia man was injured when a package exploded as he opened it.

Police have not yet made an arrest or announced a motive in what they call a targeted attack on 60-year-old victim James Alden.

Pennsylvania Rep. Brian Sims, who represents the downtown Philadelphia district, said Alden is a member of the LGBT community. Sims is following the investigation to be sure the victim was not targeted over his sexuality.

Alden, who works in catering, shares the first-floor apartment near Rittenhouse Square with his partner. The partner told police Alden thought the package contained asthma inhalers that he orders by mail.

However, police do not think the package was sent in the mail because it contained an old bar code.

Police said Alden is in stable condition, although the hospital where he was taken says it doesn’t have a patient listed by that name Wednesday.

Alden suffered injuries to his hands, chest and face.

The approximately 10 people evacuated after the 4 a.m. explosion were allowed back home once police finished their work at the scene, a spokeswoman said.

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