At least two people have been shot at a celebration marking the end of Ramadan in Philadelphia. Hundreds of residents were gathered to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
Officers were on detail in the area, due to the celebration, which was taking place in Clara Muhammad Square, heard about 30 gun shots and they were able to get to the shooting scene quickly. Officers said there appeared to be two factions in the park shooting at each other. It isn’t clear yet why they began shooting at each other.
The officers observed 3 males and 1 female running, stopped them and recovered 4 weapons. Of that group of 4, three are juveniles and one is an adult. One officer was engaged with a 15-year-old male with a gun, shot him in his shoulder and leg, secured the weapon, and then took him to the hospital where he is in stable condition.
A 22-year-old male was shot in the stomach, and then another juvenile showed up at the hospital with a gunshot wound to his hand about an hour after the incident. It isn’t clear how, or who shot the juvenile, but he was at the event. These two victims are also in stable condition.
Philadelphia Police currently have 5 individuals under arrest; the 4 that were originally running from the scene, and the 15-year-old that was shot by the officer.
Support services and a recovery center are set up.
Officers are asking witnesses with any information or videos to call (215) 686-TIPS.
By - FZ
