LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- A Christmas Eve tragedy shocked an entire community as a Salvation Army major was shot in cold blood right in front of his own children.
Maj. Philip Wise, 40, was taking two bell ringers home and then returned with his three small children to the Salvation Army.
According to reports, Wise was walking in the back door when the armed robbers approached him and demanded money.
According a spokesperson with the North Little Rock Police Department, the suspects shot him at least once as his kids, ages 4, 6 and 8, watched the shooting after Wise called 911. The suspects were attempting to rob him in the process.
Police confirm that they do have suspects. They are looking for two black men in their late teens or early 20s.
Wheeling Salvation Army Major John Blevins said he and his wife, Major Dianna Blevins, knew the Wise family for 20 years. He said they were both devastated when they heard the news. "He was the most humble and gentle person around," said Blevins. "This is a great loss to the Salvation Army, but also to his family and community."
Blevins added, "in all of my officership, I can never recall an officer being shot and killed. It is such a loss. He was such a well-respected person."
Wise was scheduled to return home to his family in Weirton.
His wife Cindy is also a major for the salvation army.
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