PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Three people were shot at the end of a Ramadan event with around 1,000 people in attendance in West Philadelphia’s Parkside section Wednesday afternoon, according to police. It happened at 47th Street and Girard Avenue at around 2:30 p.m.
Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel said five people are in custody, including a 15-year-old.
The 15-year-old was shot by police responding to the scene and taken to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Bethel said. The 15-year-old was shot by police twice in the shoulder and leg, Bethel said.
A 22-year-old and another person were also shot. Behel said the 15-year-old and 22-year-old are both in stable condition. The condition of the third person is not known at this time. Five guns were recovered, Bethel said.
A child in the area of the shooting was struck by a police car responding to the scene and suffered a broken leg, Bethel said.
The FBI is on the way to the scene to assist the Philadelphia Police Department and other local partners in the investigation, a spokesperson said. ATF Philadelphia Field Division is also assisting at the scene of the shooting.
Sen. Bob Casey posted on X that his office has been in touch with local officials about the shooting.
“My office has been in touch with local officials on the shooting at a Eid al-Fitr event in Philadelphia. As we gather more details, I urge everyone to stay safe and listen to law enforcement,” he wrote on X.
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro posted on X Pennsylvania State Police have been in contact with Philly police and offered “full spot” for the shooting.
“Eid should always be a time of joy for our Muslim neighbors — and I grieve for every member of the Philadelphia Muslim community whose celebration was shattered by gun violence today,” Shapiro wrote in part.
A Philadelphia police spokesperson said parents looking to reunite with their children can meet with police at Sister Clara Muhammad School at 47th Street and Wyalusing Avenue.
What is Eid al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr is the earlier of two official holidays celebrated within Islam.
Eid al-Fitr is celebrated by Muslims because it marks the end of Ramadan – the ninth month of the Islamic calendar observed by Muslims as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
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