PHILADELPHIA, PA — Federal prosecutors have charged Shahiem Groover, a 45-year-old Philadelphia resident, with multiple offenses stemming from an incident in February 2025 that began as a routine traffic stop and escalated into a high-speed chase and alleged gunfire exchange with law enforcement.
According to court filings, the incident began on February 24, 2025, when Philadelphia police officers conducted a traffic stop after identifying a Buick with a suspended license plate. Groover, who was driving the vehicle alone, initially complied with the stop and exited the car to engage with officers. However, he later returned to the vehicle, locked the doors, and fled at high speed.
The ensuing pursuit spanned several blocks before Groover abandoned the car and attempted to flee on foot. Police allege that as they caught up to him, Groover stumbled and, while on the ground, retrieved a loaded Sterling Arms .22 caliber pistol and discharged it once at an officer. After a brief struggle, officers subdued Groover and recovered the weapon.
A subsequent search of the vehicle reportedly yielded cocaine and methamphetamine packaged in a manner consistent with drug trafficking. Prosecutors assert that Groover intended to distribute the substances.
Groover, who has a previous felony conviction in Pennsylvania that prohibits him from possessing firearms, is facing federal charges including possession with intent to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine, discharging a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm by a felon.
If convicted, Groover could face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, with the possibility of a maximum life sentence. Speaking on behalf of the case, U.S. Attorney David Metcalf emphasized the serious nature of the allegations, which include drug trafficking and firearm-related offenses.
The case was jointly investigated by the Philadelphia Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Parisi is leading the prosecution.
While the indictment marks a significant step forward in the government’s efforts to address violent crime and drug trafficking in Philadelphia, it is important to note that all charges are allegations. Groover is presumed innocent unless and until evidence is presented in court that proves otherwise.
Further updates regarding the legal proceedings are expected as the case progresses.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.