UPDATE: An American Airlines flight attendant, Amadou Thiam, was found dead outside his South Philadelphia home, prompting an urgent police investigation. Authorities believe he may have been attacked inside his residence on the 2400 block of Federal Street on the night of November 10, 2023.
Thiam, aged 50, was discovered lying naked on the pavement, suffering from severe injuries. He was quickly transported to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries. The medical examiner has yet to determine the cause of death, but homicide detectives are actively investigating, as reported by Deputy Police Commissioner Frank Vanore.
Witnesses in the Grays Ferry neighborhood reported hearing loud noises emanating from Thiam’s home around 6:30 PM. Shortly after, two men were seen exiting the property. One neighbor approached them and asked, “Is everything OK?” The men chuckled and replied, “We hope so.”
When neighbors checked Thiam’s door, they discovered blood smeared across his kitchen and bedroom. Assuming he was a victim of a burglary, they called the police. Moments later, they saw a trail of blood leading to Thiam’s body on the sidewalk.
Detectives believe Thiam may have fallen through a third-story window. His injuries included fractures to his face, ribs, and skull. Police have secured surveillance footage showing two men in the area when Thiam’s body was found. One suspect is described as a thin Black male wearing a black leather jacket over a red hoodie, while the second is older, bald, and dressed in a gray jacket.
Law enforcement sources indicate that the men may have been seen carrying items out of Thiam’s home; however, there were no signs of forced entry. The investigation is ongoing, and police urge anyone with information to contact homicide detectives at 215-686-3334 or the police tip line at 215-686-8477.
Thiam, who joined American Airlines in 2011, was known for his love of travel and his vibrant personality. A memo shared by a fellow flight attendant highlighted his kindness and charisma, stating, “His presence and natural charisma was always something felt throughout a room.”
Local residents are mourning the loss of Thiam, describing him as exceptionally friendly and eccentric in his fashion choices. One neighbor reflected on the tragedy: “Everybody is having a really hard time processing it… It’s right in our backyard.”
As police continue to investigate, the community remains on edge, grappling with the shocking events that unfolded in their quiet neighborhood. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.
