A peaceful summer night in Philadelphia’s Grays Ferry neighborhood turned into a nightmare early Sunday when a mass shooting left three people dead and 10 others hurt — including three kids.
What Happened?
The shooting happened around 1 a.m. on South Etting Street. According to police, several people suddenly opened fire into a crowd. It all happened very fast. Loud pops echoed through the street, and people started running and screaming.
Doorbell camera footage from a nearby home shows people hiding behind cars while shots were fired nonstop. One gunman walked close to the camera, firing again and again. The scene was chaotic and terrifying.
Victims and Injuries
Police said three young men — ages 19, 23, and 24 — were killed in the shooting. Ten other people were taken to the hospital. A 15-year-old girl and two more minors were among those hurt. One young man is still in critical condition after being shot twice in the head.
The victims were rushed to nearby hospitals, including Penn Presbyterian and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
“A Cowardly Act”
Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel called the shooting “a cowardly and senseless act.” He said officers were already in the area responding to noise complaints just before the shots rang out.
One person has been taken into custody, but police believe at least two more shooters were involved and are still out there. Investigators found multiple shell casings and are checking more video footage to find out exactly what happened.
A Scared and Sad Community
People who live in Grays Ferry are heartbroken and angry. “We were just outside enjoying the night,” said one local woman. “Now three families are planning funerals.”
City leaders say this is part of a bigger problem — there has been a rise in shootings during holidays and weekends when big crowds gather. This attack came just days after the 4th of July, which had already seen other violent incidents.
What’s Next?
Police are asking anyone who saw or heard anything to call their tip line at 215-686-1780. The community is also being offered free counseling and support through local victim services.
As the city tries to heal, neighbors are coming together to support one another — and call for peace.
