(RepublicanView.org) – A West Philadelphia block party ended in tragedy over the weekend when three people were killed and six injured by gunfire, according to police reports. Shortly after 2 am on Sunday, July 21, partygoers were shot at by unidentified assailants on the 1200 block of North Alden Street.
More than 100 people were reportedly gathered at the event, celebrating late into the night. Police officers confirmed that some of the victims were transported directly to the hospital by officers, while others were taken in neighbors’ cars.
A statement from the Philadelphia Police Department described how initial information seems to suggest that there was an exchange of gunfire between multiple people in the crowd, resulting in a large number of injuries and several deaths.
Among those who lost their lives during the shooting were a 23-year-old, a 29-year-old, and a 33-year-old man. The identities of those injured and killed have not yet been released by the authorities, though officers did say that those who were injured are in various conditions; some are stable while others are fighting for their lives. Among those injured were individuals in their 20s and 30s.
At least 36 shell casings were recovered at the scene – of various calibers – and three weapons were also recovered. Police believe that there was almost certainly more than one shooter involved in the incident. One of the individuals injured has also been placed under arrest in connection to the incident, though the person has not been publicly identified.
On Monday, city officials described how the organizers of the event had not applied for a permit from City Hall, making it an illegal gathering. Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel also noted that the evidence so far seems to suggest that an argument erupted in the middle of the block party that eventually turned physical.
The investigation is ongoing, and anybody with information about the incident is encouraged to reach out to the Philadelphia Police Department. You can reach the department’s anonymous tip line via call or text at 215-686-8477.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker promised that the incident would not go unpunished.
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