Gun Violence Disrupts Philadelphia Eid Event Celebrations
What was supposed to be a joyous occasion celebrating the end of Ramadan for over 1,000 Muslims in Philadelphia devolved into chaos and violence. When two groups began firing guns near the Philadelphia Eid event celebration. The shooting occurred in the afternoon near the 4700 block of Wyalusing Avenue where the Philadelphia Eid event was taking place.
When the gunfire erupted, it sparked a massive police response to the scene near the Philadelphia Eid event. In total approximately 30 shots were fired by the two groups. In the aftermath, three people were injured including a 15-year-old. Who was shot by police after reportedly being armed with an assault rifle. Two others sustained gunshot wounds and were transported to nearby hospitals.
The Police Response
A police officer assigned to the area of the Philadelphia Eid event engaged with the 15-year-old gunman who did not drop his weapon when ordered. The officer shot the teen once in each arm in an attempt to disarm him without causing serious injury. The officer then rushed the teen to the hospital. In total five suspects were taken into custody and five firearms were recovered from the scene.
The violence cast a dark shadow on what was supposed to be a joyous religious celebration for the Muslim community in Philadelphia. Police are still investigating the motive. And exact details of what sparked the shooting so close to the Philadelphia Eid event. But for many in attendance, the violence was a tragic disruption of an important holiday and a frightening experience.
