Shooting at Ramadan event in West Philly leaves 3 injured, 5 in custody, police say

Councilmember Jamie R. Gauthier said she was at the event earlier in the day and it has been joyful.

During a Ramadan event in West Philadelphia's Parkside section on Wednesday afternoon, three people were shot in an exchange of gunfire between two groups, according to police.

The incident occurred at 47th Street and Wyalusing Avenue around 2:30 p.m. during a celebration for Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker condemned the violence, calling it a sacrilegious act during a holy celebration. She expressed solidarity with the Muslim community and pledged to work towards restoring peace.

Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel reported that five individuals, including an armed 15-year-old boy who was shot by responding officers, are in custody. The other suspects are three males and one female.

The injured 15-year-old suspect was hospitalized, as were two other victims: a 22-year-old man shot in the stomach and a 15-year-old boy struck in the finger. Fortunately, their injuries were deemed non-life-threatening.

Five firearms were recovered from the scene, and the officer who shot the 15-year-old suspect has been placed on administrative duty pending investigation.

One man shares how he helped some women and children who were trampled after people started running away from shots being fired at a Ramadan event in West Philadelphia Wednesday afternoon.

The FBI and ATF are assisting in the investigation, and authorities confirmed that the shooting does not appear to be ideologically motivated.

Senator Bob Casey and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro offered their support and condolences to the affected community.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with many children present who had to seek shelter during the gunfire. Community leaders expressed outrage and called for an end to violence, especially during religious celebrations. The incident has sparked discussions about community safety and the need for more support and resources for youth in the area.