WHYY News has recently released a two-part podcast titled “MOVE at 40,” detailing the harrowing events surrounding the MOVE bombing that occurred on May 13, 1985.
This special report, accessible on Apple Podcasts and various platforms, highlights significant insights, including a chilling warning from a helicopter pilot who played a crucial role just before the bombing.
The tragedy, which resulted in the destruction of the MOVE compound on Osage Avenue in Philadelphia, claimed the lives of 11 individuals, including five children, and left over 61 homes obliterated.
In the lead-up to the 40th anniversary, WHYY News editor Sarah Glover convened a team discussion aimed at producing impactful public service journalism rather than recycled narratives of the past.
To achieve fresh insight into the bombing, reporter Tom MacDonald embarked on a meticulous investigation, reviewing over 90 hours of media coverage from the MOVE Commission hearings held at WHYY in 1985.
Through his research, MacDonald unearthed the narrative of Mark Ciccone, a former combat veteran turned commercial helicopter pilot, who had flown the route over the MOVE compound on the day of the bombing.
Ciccone had cautioned city officials that “the bunker’s no threat” and cautioned against dropping the bomb.
Despite his insights, Ciccone was not invited to testify at the MOVE Commission hearings, a glaring omission that MacDonald rectified by interviewing him decades later while he sat in a similar helicopter.
Furthermore, WHYY videographer Kimberly Paynter produced a mini-documentary titled “Philadelphia MOVE bombing: 1985 pilot recalls warning to city leaders,” showcasing MacDonald’s in-depth reporting alongside reflections from fellow journalist Pete Kane, who reported from the scene in 1985.
In parallel, reporter Aaron Moselle examined the ongoing repercussions of the bombing on the Cobbs Creek neighborhood and the resilience exhibited by its residents.
Amidst ongoing efforts for remembrance, Mike Africa Jr. is advocating for the transformation of the former MOVE house into a memorial, preserving the site’s history.
MacDonald’s reporting also provided context on prior interactions between police and the MOVE organization, further outlining the neighborhood’s disruption due to MOVE members’ activities, such as sleeping on rooftops and traversing the structures along Osage Avenue.
For deeper insights and additional reports, WHYY News encourages visitors to explore the MOVE 40th Anniversary special section on their website.
Glover reflected on past journalistic endeavors while announcing recent achievements, including Cris Barrish’s reporting on Delaware’s struggles with marijuana retail, David Matthau’s coverage of the NJ Transit strike, and Sophia Schmidt’s work investigating the potential impacts of a federal heating program cut affecting Pennsylvania households.
Recognizing WHYY News’ commitment to delivering essential news and information, the Radio Television Digital News Association recently honored the newsroom with four regional Edward R. Murrow Awards for their impactful reporting in 2024.
MacDonald’s investigation into the MOVE bombing’s legacy underscores WHYY’s mission of public service journalism, prioritizing community engagement and communication.
Glover expressed gratitude to the audience for their continued support for WHYY and the critical work undertaken by the newsroom.
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