2 Arrested in South Philadelphia Robbery Spree

Violent incidents prompt increased police presence in Bella Vista and Hawthorne neighborhoods

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Police have arrested two individuals in connection with a string of violent robberies that have occurred in the Bella Vista and Hawthorne neighborhoods of South Philadelphia over the past month. The robberies have involved victims being physically assaulted and having their belongings stolen, including money, wallets, and e-bikes.

Why it matters

The robberies have left residents in the typically safe neighborhoods feeling on edge, prompting increased police patrols and community meetings to address the public's safety concerns. The arrests represent a step towards restoring a sense of security in the area.

The details

According to Philadelphia City Councilmember Mark Squilla, the police captain has been actively working to bring additional officers and highway patrol to the affected neighborhoods to monitor the situation. Residents report multiple incidents where victims were punched, kicked, and robbed of their personal belongings in recent weeks.

  • The robberies have occurred over the past month in the Bella Vista and Hawthorne neighborhoods of South Philadelphia.
  • Police updated concerned residents on the situation during a public meeting at the Palumbo Recreation Center on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

Mark Squilla

A Philadelphia City Councilmember representing the affected neighborhoods.

Eugene Desyatnik

The president of the Bella Vista Neighbors Association.

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What they’re saying

“We are all very much on edge, and we are fortunate to live in a neighborhood that doesn't have these incidents.”

— Unnamed resident (cbsnews.com)

“This is definitely not something people are used to seeing.”

— Eugene Desyatnik, President of the Bella Vista Neighbors Association (cbsnews.com)

“Hopefully this will be behind us.”

— Eugene Desyatnik, President of the Bella Vista Neighbors Association (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The judge will decide on bail for the two arrested suspects at a hearing next week.

The takeaway

The arrests represent progress in addressing the recent spike in violent robberies that have unsettled the typically safe Bella Vista and Hawthorne neighborhoods, but residents remain vigilant as the community works to restore a sense of security.