Philadelphia Ramadan Celebration Shooting: A chaotic scene unfolded during an Eid al-Fitr event in West Philadelphia on Wednesday afternoon, as multiple individuals sustained injuries amidst a barrage of gunfire. The incident occurred as approximately 1,000 attendees gathered to commemorate the conclusion of Ramadan.
Police reported that around 2:26 p.m., three individuals were shot during the festivities near the 4700 block of Wyalusing Avenue. Notably, one of the wounded individuals was shot by a police officer.
Authorities report that approximately 30 gunshots were fired during the incident.
An officer on duty confronted a 15-year-old armed with a gun, described by Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel as possibly wielding an assault rifle. Despite orders to drop the weapon, the teen did not comply, prompting the officer to fire, hitting the teen once in the left arm and once in the left leg.
Following the altercation, the officer swiftly transported the wounded teen to the Children’s Hospital Of Philadelphia (CHOP), where he is listed in stable condition.
Another victim, a 22-year-old male, sustained a gunshot wound to the stomach and was transported by police to Penn Presbyterian Hospital, also in stable condition.
Additionally, a 15-year-old was struck in the right ring finger and received medical attention at CHOP, remaining stable.
Amidst the chaos, a 15-year-old girl was accidentally hit by a Philadelphia Police patrol wagon. She was rushed to CHOP by Philadelphia Fire Department (PFD) medics with a fractured leg, her condition stable.
In response to the incident, law enforcement has apprehended five individuals: three males, one female, and the 15-year-old boy wounded by police. Furthermore, five firearms were recovered at the scene.
Authorities state that they do not suspect the individuals involved in the shooting were affiliated with the peaceful celebration. Prior to law enforcement’s arrival, two factions were reportedly exchanging gunfire in the park adjacent to the Eid-al-Fitr gathering.
The incident unfolded near the Philadelphia Masjid mosque, situated across from the park.
At the crime scene, evidence marker 30 was positioned beside a bullet and a woman’s shoe discovered on the playground.
The investigation is ongoing.