In West Philadelphia, a shooting was captured on surveillance video. According to police, a masked suspect fired over 15 rounds at close range with what is believed to be an AK-47 or a similar high-powered weapon, fatally shooting a 23-year-old man who was standing outside a store on Saturday night.
The incident took place near Market Street, almost a block away from where police have a vehicle stationed. The victim was taken to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center but died from his wounds.
The surveillance video shows the alleged shooter opening fire on the victim, who sustained bullet wounds throughout his body. Residents reported the sound of gunfire could be heard for several blocks. Gwen Butler, a witness at the scene, expressed alarm and concern over the random and impulsive nature of the attack.
Philadelphia – WARNING GRAPHIC
🚨NEW VIDEO shows gruesome murder at 52nd and Market St yesterday (06/29/24) in Philly
The shooter used a high powered rifle (AK-47?) and shot at the man “John Doe” point blank several times.
PPD transported the male to the hospital but he was… pic.twitter.com/k5qId9TG46 [1]
— PhillyCrimeUpdate (@PhillyCrimeUpd) June 30, 2024 [2]
Butler recently moved to Philadelphia to be closer to her son and lamented the senseless violence that takes young lives, saying “I am tired of seeing my young people die like this, really tired, and it doesn’t belong in Philly or any other city.”
The police are currently reviewing the surveillance footage, and the Shooting Investigation Group is leading the investigation.
Authorities are appealing to anyone with information regarding the shooter or additional video footage to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 215-686-TIPS (8477) or texting 215-686-TIPS (8477), or via the website. All tips will remain confidential.