What started as a routine traffic stop in Lebanon on Friday ended with the arrest of a homicide suspect wanted in South Philadelphia, authorities said. Lebanon City officers pulled over a vehicle near North 5th and Willow streets and took 42-year-old Dennis Patton into custody without incident. Patton is accused in the May 6 fatal shooting of 31-year-old Walter S. Holloway on the 2100 block of Wharton Street in South Philadelphia. Holloway was taken to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
How police say the arrest unfolded
Lebanon police told Daily Voice the arrest began as a standard traffic stop, only for officers to learn that Patton had an active homicide warrant issued by the Philadelphia Police Department. Officers detained him at the scene without any reported struggle. Lebanon authorities said investigators had not recovered a weapon at the time of the report.
Case background
Philadelphia police had previously identified Patton as their suspect and announced a $20,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction, according to CBS Philadelphia. Investigators say Holloway was shot in the head and leg on May 6 and was pronounced dead at about 11 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.
What’s next for the case
After the traffic stop, Patton was processed locally in Lebanon, though police there did not immediately release details about his booking status or when he might be transferred, Daily Voice reported. Philadelphia homicide detectives are expected to coordinate with Lebanon authorities on the next steps while prosecutors determine formal charges.
Police ask for tips
Authorities are still asking anyone with information about the shooting or Patton's movements to contact the Philadelphia Police Department or Crime Stoppers. The $20,000 reward remains in effect, CBS Philadelphia reported. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Philadelphia Crime Stoppers.
