Cops: Boys, 14 and 15, charged in dog walker's murder

Two boys, ages 14 and 15, have been charged in connection with the murder of a man who was out walking his dog in Overbrook last Thursday and police are still looking for the 15-year-old boy who was allegedly the gunman.

Homicide Capt. James Clark said Brandon Smith, 15, Tyfine Hamilton, 15, and a 14-year-old boy whose name was not released, were out playing basketball when they decided to rob someone Thursday night. They initially planned to rob another dog walker but then they spotted James Stuhlman, 51, who was older and whose dog appeared weaker so they changed their plan and went after him instead, Clark said.

Stuhlman, a married father, pleaded for his life, but during a struggle with the boys he was shot once in the chest and died around 8:30 p.m. on Woodcrest Avenue near 64th Street, police said. The boys took nothing from him.

Yesterday, patrol officers spotted boys who matched the description of the suspects and after a brief foot chase, took them into custody, Clark said.

Smith has been charged as an adult with murder. The 14-year-old, who is cooperating with police, will be charged with lesser crimes, Clark said. It's unclear whether he will be charged as an adult.

Hamilton, the shooter, remains on the run. Anyone with information is asked to call the department's tip line at 215-686-8477.