Thomas Garcia

Deadly force

Palmyra police responded to a 911 call reporting domestic violence taking place in Palmyra. Palmyra Patrolman John Quigg Jr., 42, and Riverton Patrolman, Tommy Merino, 37, responded. When police arrived at the scene Thomas Garcia exited the home armed with a knife and ran toward the officers, confronting them while brandishing the weapon. Garcia attacked and attempted to stab the officers. Garcia then attempted to stab officer Quigg in the chest and sliced a pouch located on the officer's duty belt with the knife. Officer Merino then shot and killed him.