Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon was held at gunpoint during a Wednesday afternoon robbery.
According to the preliminary reports, the Democratic House Representative was robbed of her belongings at FDR Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
As WPVI revealed, the 62-year-old congresswoman, who is a stout supporter of police reforms and a co-sponsor of the bill calling for mental health officers to replace police officers in some situations, was approached by a dark SUV with two young men inside while walking towards her car.
After pointing a gun at her head, the two suspects, who are believed to be in their 20s or 30s according to the Philadelphia Police Department, demanded she hands over her car keys.
Though the congresswoman was not injured during the armed robbery, her car, along with her personal belongings including a wallet and a phone, was stolen.
“I am relieved that Congresswoman Scanlon was not physically injured, and my thoughts are with her during this difficult time,” said Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw.
“The PPD will continue to provide any support needed in this case and will work diligently alongside our federal partners to assist in bringing those responsible to justice.”
Speaking out was also Lauren Cox, Scanlon’s spokesperson, who said:
“Wednesday afternoon, at around 2:45 pm, Congresswoman Scanlon was carjacked at gunpoint in FDR Park following a meeting at that location.
“The Congresswoman was physically unharmed.
“She thanks the Philadelphia Police Department for their swift response, and appreciates the efforts of both the Sergeant at Arms in D.C. and her local police department for coordinating with Philly PD to ensure her continued safety.”
The robbery follows just 16 hours after 53-year-old Illinois Senator Kimberly Lightford was carjacked along with her husband just outside Chicago.
Lightford, too, expressed her support for police reform policies and previously suggested police budgets in Chicago should be slashed.
“First and foremost, I am thankful that my husband and I are alive and physically unharmed,” the Democrat said in a statement following the carjacking.
“I am trying to process the trauma of what happened. I want to thank everyone who has offered their love and support.”
As of this writing, it is not clear whether the two instances are connected in any way and the motives remain unknown.
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