Kathi Camp News Today

Officially, a victims assistance officer will help coordinate logistics and reimbursements in the wake of a homicide. But families say that rarely happens so they often take it upon themselves to investigate the crime.

A lack of communication between law enforcement and families of victims is not a new issue, and it’s not unique to Philadelphia, victims services experts said. It represents a widespread reluctance to invest in adequate care for victims.

In Philly, homicide detectives can be difficult to reach, causing families anguish and leading some to take matters into their own hands.

Family members of a man who was shot and killed over the weekend in Philadelphia say he was visiting the city to mourn the shooting death of a friend and local musician.