Department of Justice
For Immediate Release
Philadelphia Carjacker and Murderer Sentenced to 55 Years in Prison
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Khalif Tuggle, 30, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 55 years in prison for committing carjacking and murder. United States District Court Judge Michael M. Baylson imposed the sentence on the defendant.
On August 27, 2020, a grand jury indicted Tuggle for carjacking, use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and murder in the course of using a firearm, all stemming from his robbery, carjacking, and brutal murder of Thomas Petersen on January 24, 2017. Tuggle fired one shot into Petersen’s chest, dragged him out of the car, threw him on the road, robbed him, and left him for dead while Petersen was screaming in pain. Tuggle fled the scene in Petersen’s car, and Petersen died later at Temple University Hospital after two Philadelphia Police Officers rushed him from the scene. On April 18, 2022, Tuggle pled guilty to all three counts of the indictment.
"Today's sentencing stems from the carjacking and murder committed by Khalif Tuggle," said U.S. Attorney Romero. "The 55-year sentence handed down today will never bring back Thomas Peterson or heal the pain of losing him. However, it should warn other violent individuals that the federal system can and will be utilized to hold them accountable."
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph LaBar and Michael Miller.