Paul David Ley-Harris Murdered in Lower Providence Township: Jordan Antrim Arrested for Murder and Robbery in Daylight Shooting Incident
Paul David Ley-Harris Murdered in Lower Providence Township: Jordan Antrim Arrested for Murder and Robbery in Daylight Shooting Incident
LOWER PROVIDENCE TWP., PA — May 18, 2025 — Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin R. Steele and Lower Providence Township Police Chief Michael Jackson jointly announced today the arrest of 32-year-old Jordan Antrim of Philadelphia for the murder and robbery of 47-year-old Paul David Ley-Harris, a respected Lower Providence resident. The crime, which occurred on Saturday afternoon, May 17, 2025, in broad daylight, has stunned the community and left many grappling with shock and sorrow over the loss of a well-known local man.
The Incident: A Shocking Daylight Shooting
At approximately 4:50 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, Lower Providence Township Police received an urgent 911 call reporting a shooting near the intersection of Ridge Pike and Crosskeys Road, a busy commercial and residential area within the township. Upon arrival, officers found Paul David Ley-Harris suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the swift arrival of emergency medical services and rapid transport to a nearby hospital, Ley-Harris succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
Police launched an immediate investigation, quickly identifying the suspect as Jordan Antrim, a Philadelphia resident with a history of criminal activity. Authorities apprehended Antrim late Saturday night following a coordinated operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
Victim Profile: Remembering Paul David Ley-Harris
Paul David Ley-Harris, aged 47, was a lifelong resident of Lower Providence Township and a familiar face within the community. Known for his affable personality and commitment to local volunteer organizations, Ley-Harris had worked for over two decades as a supervisor at a manufacturing firm in the region.
Friends and neighbors describe him as a devoted family man who was passionate about youth mentorship and community engagement. “Paul was always ready to lend a helping hand,” said longtime neighbor Susan Ramirez. “This senseless act has left a hole in all of our hearts.”
Ley-Harris is survived by his wife, two children, and extended family, all of whom have requested privacy as they mourn their devastating loss.
The Suspect: Jordan Antrim
Jordan Antrim, 32, is a Philadelphia resident whose criminal record reportedly includes several prior arrests for theft, assault, and drug-related offenses. Authorities allege that the robbery and murder of Ley-Harris were connected, although the precise motive remains under investigation.
Antrim was taken into custody without incident and is currently held at Montgomery County Correctional Facility pending formal charges. District Attorney Steele emphasized that Antrim will face the full weight of the law. “This violent and brazen crime will be prosecuted aggressively,” Steele stated at a press conference Sunday morning.
Police Investigation and Law Enforcement Response
The Lower Providence Township Police Department worked closely with the Montgomery County Detective Bureau and the Pennsylvania State Police to investigate the shooting. Officers canvassed the area for witnesses, reviewed surveillance footage from nearby businesses, and collected forensic evidence at the scene.
Chief Michael Jackson praised the professionalism and dedication of the officers involved in the rapid apprehension of the suspect. “Our officers responded swiftly and thoroughly to a traumatic event in our community. Their actions helped bring a dangerous individual off the streets and begin the process of justice for the victim and his family,” Jackson said.
Community Reaction: Shock and Mourning
The murder of Paul David Ley-Harris has deeply affected Lower Providence Township residents. The normally quiet neighborhood near Ridge Pike has seen an outpouring of grief, with many community members leaving flowers, candles, and messages of condolence near the site of the shooting.
Local officials have called for calm and unity in the wake of the tragedy. “We stand together in grief but also in resolve,” said Lower Providence Township Supervisor Mark Benson. “We must support one another and work collectively to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.”
Faith leaders from several local churches have organized vigils and prayer services in honor of Ley-Harris, emphasizing the need for peace and healing.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Jordan Antrim has been charged with first-degree murder, armed robbery, and multiple firearm offenses in connection with the shooting of Paul David Ley-Harris. The District Attorney’s Office has indicated that they will pursue the maximum penalties allowed under Pennsylvania law.
Preliminary court hearings are scheduled for the coming week, during which bail status, formal arraignment, and discovery will be addressed. Defense attorneys for Antrim have yet to make a public statement.
Background on Gun Violence in the Region
This tragic incident has also sparked renewed conversations about gun violence in Montgomery County and the broader Philadelphia metropolitan area. Law enforcement officials and community leaders alike are calling for increased efforts to curb illegal firearms and enhance public safety measures.
Statistics indicate that while Lower Providence Township has generally maintained a low crime rate, there has been an uptick in violent crimes over recent years, reflecting broader national trends.
Support and Resources for the Community
In response to the incident, local government and nonprofit organizations have mobilized resources to provide counseling and support services to those affected by the shooting. The Montgomery County Crisis Intervention Unit is offering trauma counseling and victim assistance to the family of Paul David Ley-Harris and other community members impacted by the event.
Community outreach efforts include neighborhood safety workshops, enhanced patrols, and public forums aimed at fostering dialogue and preventive strategies.
Statements from Officials
District Attorney Kevin R. Steele:
“This senseless act of violence against a beloved community member is a tragic loss for all of Lower Providence Township. We are committed to ensuring that justice is served and that individuals who commit such crimes are held accountable. Our office will work tirelessly with law enforcement to prosecute this case fully.”
Lower Providence Township Police Chief Michael Jackson:
“The swift apprehension of the suspect was a result of diligent police work and collaboration between agencies. Our hearts go out to the family of Paul David Ley-Harris. We encourage anyone with further information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.”
Lower Providence Township Supervisor Mark Benson:
“Our community is grieving deeply. We ask residents to come together in support of one another and to maintain vigilance. Safety remains our top priority.”
How the Public Can Help
Police officials have requested that anyone with additional information about the incident contact the Lower Providence Township Police Department’s tip line at (610) 649-1000. Anonymous tips are welcome and can be submitted through the department’s website.
Authorities are also seeking any dashcam or private surveillance footage that may have captured relevant details from the time of the crime.
Conclusion
The brutal murder and robbery of Paul David Ley-Harris in Lower Providence Township has left a profound mark on the community. As authorities pursue justice, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive impact of violent crime and the importance of community vigilance.
The people of Lower Providence mourn the loss of a respected neighbor and friend while standing united in the pursuit of safety, justice, and healing.
For further updates and information, please follow official announcements from the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office and Lower Providence Township Police Department.
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