The Bucks County District Attorney’s Office has announced a major breakthrough in a multi-state drug trafficking investigation, resulting in the no-bail detention of a suspect who allegedly opened fire on law enforcement. The incident occurred during the execution of a high-risk search warrant at a residence on Fairdale Road in Philadelphia, a location identified as a hub for a multimillion-dollar criminal enterprise.
Members of the Bensalem Township Police Special Investigation Unit and the Bucks County Detectives Drug Strike Force were met with immediate gunfire as they attempted to breach the property. According to investigators, a shot was fired from inside the home as officers announced their presence. Moments later, a second round was fired through the front door, narrowly missing agents from the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office and State Police Troopers.
The suspect, 26-year-old Nicholas Sperando, eventually surrendered. Upon entering the home, police recovered an FN Herstal 5.7 pistol with a jammed round in the chamber, which officials believe prevented further shots from being fired. The broader investigation led to the seizure of $4 million in narcotics, including 300 pounds of marijuana and 17,000 THC vapes, along with eight firearms.
Bensalem Public Safety Director William McVey praised the professionalism of the officers involved, noting that the suspects posed a significant threat to both law enforcement and the local community. The operation highlights the ongoing collaborative efforts to dismantle large-scale drug networks operating near the Bensalem and Philadelphia border.
Status
Nicholas Sperando is being held without bail in Bucks County on charges including attempted murder of a law enforcement officer and aggravated assault. Co-defendants David Tierney and Nicholas Keenoy are also in custody, facing drug and conspiracy charges.
