Gunfire erupts at Eid al-Fitr celebration in Philadelphia park, multiple injuries reported

Gunfire incident occurred in a Philadelphia park during Eid al-Fitr celebration, resulting in the shooting of three individuals

Chaos unfolded Wednesday afternoon in a Philadelphia park as gunfire erupted during an event commemorating the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Three individuals were shot, and the scene quickly turned chaotic as police responded to the incident.

The gunfire erupted around 2:30 p.m. local time in the area of 47th and Girard in the Parkside section, where an estimated 1,000 people had gathered for an Eid al-Fitr celebration.

According to Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel, the shooting stemmed from an exchange of gunfire between two factions within the park. Witnesses reported hearing approximately 30 gunshots during the altercation.

Amid the chaos, officers on duty in the area managed to apprehend three males and a female, all of whom were taken into custody. Four firearms were recovered during the apprehension.

In the midst of the confrontation, a police officer engaged with an armed 15-year-old male, resulting in the teen being shot in the shoulder and leg. The officer successfully disarmed the teen and subsequently transported him to the hospital. The 15-year-old suspect was also placed under arrest.

Among the victims of the shooting, a 22-year-old man sustained a gunshot wound to the stomach, while a juvenile arrived at the hospital with a gunshot wound to the hands. Additionally, amidst the chaos, a child was struck by a police vehicle, sustaining a fractured leg.

The Philadelphia Police Department swiftly mobilized citywide resources in response to the incident. Officers from various units, including SWAT, converged on the scene to assist with the investigation and ensure public safety.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as attendees fled for safety. Video footage from Chopper 6 captured the aftermath, showing abandoned tables, chairs, and tents scattered across the park.

Police officers conducted a meticulous search for shell casings and evidence of gunfire, indicating the complexity of the ongoing investigation. The presence of multiple crime scenes and the recovery of several firearms underscored the severity of the situation.

As the investigation continues, authorities are working to piece together the events leading up to the shooting and ensure the safety of the community. Further updates are expected as law enforcement officials provide additional information.

Source: Newsroom