Three people were shot during a Ramadan event in West Philadelphia’s Parkside section, with gunfire erupting between two groups at around 2:30 p.m. The event celebrating Eid al-Fitr was attended by about 1,000 people, marking the end of Ramadan. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker condemned the violence, expressing solidarity with the Muslim community and vowing to restore peace. Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel reported that five people, including a 15-year-old armed boy, were in custody, and weapons were recovered from the scene.
The 15-year-old boy shot by police and two other individuals injured during the incident were hospitalized in stable condition. The FBI and ATF are assisting in the investigation, and officials believe the shooting was not an ideologically driven or targeted attack. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro offered full support, and Senator Bob Casey urged everyone to stay safe and cooperate with law enforcement. Police are calling for information from the public to aid their investigation of the shooting.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene at the park, with children having to run for cover. Community leaders like Councilmember Jamie R. Gauthier expressed shock and sadness at the violence, which disrupted the joyous Eid celebration. One man recounted the harrowing experience of being near the gunshots and helping women and children who were trampled as people panicked. Residents in the area shared frustration over how the violence tainted a religious event and called for more support for at-risk children to prevent future incidents.
Renowned as a neighborhood in West Philadelphia, Parkside is situated north of Mill Creek and northwest of University City, bordering Fairmount Park and Overbrook. Eid al-Fitr is celebrated worldwide by Muslims as a festive occasion marking the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. Efforts are ongoing to investigate the shooting and ensure the safety and well-being of the community. The incident underscores the need for peace and unity in the face of violence that disrupts sacred celebrations and instills fear in the community.
