Gunman Shoots, Kills Teenage Boy in Philadelphia

A gunman shot and killed a teenage boy in Philadelphia’s Kingsessing neighborhood Tuesday night. 

Antonio Walker was on the 5200 block of Pentridge Street shortly before 7 p.m. when a gunman opened fire, Philadelphia police said. The 15-year-old was shot in his chest and arm. He was taken to the Penn Presbyterian Medical Center where he was pronounced dead at 7:36 p.m. 

No arrests have been made, a weapon has not been recovered and police have not yet released a description of any suspects. 

As of the end of Tuesday, 92 homicides were reported in Philadelphia so far this year, up 35% from the same time last year, which ultimately saw one of the highest amounts of murders in the city’s history. 

Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw is upset by the gun violence targeting young people.

"The tragic loss of a 15-year-old last night on 5200 Pentridge has left an indelible mark on his family, his friends, and the community," she said Wednesday.

"At 3:30 this morning, there was a shooting involving another 15-year-old on the 7600 block of Frankford Avenue," Outlaw noted. "Thankfully, he will survive his injuries, but we cannot ignore the physical and emotional trauma that this juvenile and his family will have to endure for some time."

Philadelphia City Council recently approved a plan called the "Anti-Violence Resource Network" which aims to quickly provide work for those who are at risk of engaging in violence or in need of employment. 

Outlaw implored everyone to help stop gun violence.

"The duty to protect these children belongs to all of us," Outlaw said. "The public has my full assurance that the Philadelphia Police Department is doing everything possible to curb gun violence in the city."

There are additional resources for people or communities that have endured gun violence in Philadelphia. Further information can be found here.