PHILADELPHIA, PA – A massive search is underway for a juvenile suspect after a shooting spree at a North Philadelphia party left seven people injured early Saturday morning. The chaotic event unfolded around 3:30 a.m. at a gathering promoted on Instagram, drawing a large crowd.
Authorities have cordoned off two crime scenes for investigation: one located on the 2500 block of North Jessup Street and another nearby at the intersection of 11th and Cumberland streets. These locations became the focus of police activity as officers sought to piece together the violent outbreak.
The victims, comprising both men and women aged 16 to 30, were rushed to Temple University Hospital following the incident. Initially, two individuals were reported to be in critical condition. However, a later update confirmed that only the youngest victim, a 16-year-old girl with a gunshot wound to the chest, remained critically injured. The others, including three men, two women in their 20s, and a 30-year-old woman, are reportedly stable.
The violence erupted when an argument between two partygoers escalated, prompting some participants to leave. The suspect returned and unleashed a barrage of over 50 shots at the crowd. Police discovered multiple types of shell casings at the scene, indicating the potential use of various firearms.
Philadelphia Police Capt. Shaun Butts stated that one weapon was recovered, yet details remain scarce regarding whether the shooter acted alone or if there was return fire. As investigators continue their work, the search for the suspect remains a top priority.
The terrifying incident has left the community on edge, highlighting the ease with which social media-fueled gatherings can spiral into violence. The city is rallying for information to help apprehend the individual responsible and prevent further occurrences of such violence.