Man found dead, tied to bed on Algon Avenue in Fox Chase section of Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia homicide detectives are investigating after a 59-year-old man was found dead inside a Fox Chase home.

Neighbors called police around 3 a.m. Tuesday after hearing someone in distress inside the home on the 8400 block of Algon Avenue.

Police found the victim, who friends identified as Al Chernoff, partially tied to a bed with a massive head wound and slashes to the chest.

Chernoff was an Army veteran and employee at Philadelphia International Airport, friends said.

"This is a shock, this is just horrible," said Angelo Ruffo.

"If you help animals in Philadelphia you've met Al. He is a wild veteran, who loves motorcycles and will talk your ear off about his motorcycles and cats," said Blake Martin of ACCT Philly.

Chernoff's life outside work was dedicated to helping felines in need.

"Al was amazing, anything you needed he would do. He was known for building shelters for all the feral stray cats in the city. He was a good man," said Ruffo.

Chernoff founded the Alley Cats animal rescue group.

"His generosity was incredible you don't see a lot of that anymore especially towards the animal community. It's been a tough day," said Martin.

ACCT Philly removed 11 cats from the home and friends have already been organizing to find them homes.

"We're going to make sure that every one of his animals can get into the best possible situation," said Martin.

Chernoff was pronounced dead the scene.

Authorities say a woman was seen leaving the home, but no further description has been released.

Police say there are surveillance cameras nearby that may have captured some footage that could be helpful in their investigation.

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