On Friday, August 11, a shooting at a basketball court in North Philadelphia led to the death of three men, with another left in critical condition. The incident took place around 6 pm at the 8th and Diamond courts.
Details from the Philadelphia Police Department indicate that a group of five males, from inside a vehicle, opened fire on individuals on the court and then quickly drove away.
Deputy Commissioner James Kelly stated that children were in close proximity during the event but were not harmed. Bullets also impacted neighboring homes.
Isiah Williams, aged 21, succumbed to his injuries at Temple University Hospital. Another individual, 23 years of age, is undergoing treatment for multiple gunshot wounds. Two others, Nyreese Moore, 22, and Naasir Folk, 24, were declared dead at the crime scene.
Police gathered around 50 shell casings from three different firearms. While evidence has been secured, the investigation has not led to any arrests, and the motive behind the shooting remains undetermined. Deputy Commissioner Kelly suggests the attack might have been targeted.
In response to the incident, Mayor Jim Kenney expressed sympathy for the victims’ families. The city has implemented measures against gun violence, such as offering a $10,000 reward for information about shooters near schools and recreational areas and enhancing surveillance around recreational facilities.
The ongoing investigation is in the hands of the Homicide Unit.
