There has been “significant progress” and “persons of interest” identified regarding recent homicides in Lancaster city, but law enforcement is asking the public to speak up and help move along the investigations.

Three people were killed since May in three separate incidents which were not related or random acts of violence.

Encounters led to the escalation of violence in all three cases:

- May 30 shooting death of Tyreek Gardner on East Chestnut Street;

- June 12 stabbing death of 16-year-old Ben Ramos on Fremont Street;

- June 16 shooting death of Anthony Marshall on Lafayette Street.

Lancaster city police have learned a lot about the three incidents, but could use additional information from witnesses to bring charges faster.

In all cases, there were multiple people present or with direct knowledge of what took place – yet they have not been forthcoming with police.

“We know we have people who know what happened and they have not come forward or told what they know,” Lancaster County District Attorney Craig Stedman said. “That’s difficult to swallow for law enforcement” and the grieving families.

Several witnesses have obtained lawyers and have not been cooperative with police.

Numerous people were present when Ramos was stabbed.

“There’s a mother out there who is grieving the loss of her 16-year-old son,” Lancaster city police Chief Jarrad Berkihiser said.

Information can be provided by:

- Texting ‘LANCS’ and your tip to 847411

- Calling CrimeStoppers at 1-800-322-1913 (rewards are available)

- This CrimeWatch page

- Contacting Lancaster city police at 717-735-3301

The ultimate goal is to prosecute the killer(s). That involves building a case with evidence that can be presented in court.

“People need to step up and decide what kind of community they want to live in,” DA Stedman said.

A press conference was translated to Spanish and can be viewed here:

MEDIA CONTACT: Brett A. Hambright, 717-295-2041; bhambright@co.lancaster.pa.us; Twitter: @BrettHambright