Authorities said that gunfire from multiple shooters caused the deaths of three people and injured at least eleven others in a Philadelphia entertainment district late on Saturday night.
At around 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, police officers were walking along South Street in central Philadelphia when they heard several shots. They raced to the scene and found many people with gunshot wounds on the sidewalk and street. The police commissioner Danielle Outlaw stated that they began aiding the victims.
Outlaw stated that another responding officer witnessed a man firing his handgun into large crowds on a street corner. Outlaw stated that the officer pulled his gun and fired multiple shots. Police believe that the man was struck before he fell onto the sidewalk.
According to a police statement, the victims were identified as 34-year old Gregory Jackson, 27 year-old Alexis Quinn and 22-years-old unidentified man. Outlaw stated that investigators believe one of three victims was involved in a “physical altercation” and they began firing at each others with gunfire.
Outlaw stated that the two other victims, aged 17-69, were innocent bystanders. Outlaw described it as a “dark day” in the city, when many people enjoying a lovely evening were made to suffer “horrendous acts…in a very popular tourist and local hangout.”
She stated, “It is important that we bring justice the victims, their family and our community.”
Two handguns, one with an extended magazine and one with a loaded magazine, were found. Chief Inspector Frank Vanore stated that investigators have evidence from the scene that five guns were involved. Police are also investigating other shootings, including one fatal, before and after the incident to determine if they may be related.
Thomas Jefferson University Hospital spokesperson Damien Woods stated that 10 patients were admitted to the hospital: six died, six in stable conditions and one who was discharged.
Outlaw stated that police would increase resources in that area on Sunday night, along with in nearby Penn’s Landing along the Delaware River which separates Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
South Street is well-known for its nightlife and entertainment venues. There are many bars, restaurants, and businesses along the street. WTXF TV posted surveillance video from a local company that showed many people walking along the streets and then running away as the gunfire broke out. Police wanted video surveillance footage from local businesses.
Mayor Jim Kenney described the shooting as “beyond catastrophic.”
He said Sunday that “once again, we see lives lost and those hurt in yet another horrendous and brazen act of gun violence.” “My thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones, family members, and friends of those who were injured or lost, as well as everyone else affected by this horrible tragedy.” “
Kenney stated that the rise in gun violence across the country and in the city “makes me both heartbroken and angry.” However, Kenney acknowledged that it would be difficult to fight this violence without taking steps to reduce the “availability” and “ease of access to firearms.”
