Three teens shot near ice skating rink in Philadelphia
- Three 14-year-olds were shot after an argument near the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink.
- Two victims were hospitalized, with one in critical condition and the other stable.
- Police arrested a male suspect, but the circumstances of his involvement remain unclear.
On Friday afternoon, in Philadelphia, three 14-year-olds were shot near the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink situated at 15th and Market streets. The incident occurred after an argument erupted between the youths at approximately 4:30 p.m. Two of the teenagers were immediately hospitalized. One teen sustained critical injuries, having been shot in the face, while the other sustained a non-life-threatening wound to the thigh and was reported to be in stable condition. A third minor, shot in the calf, was taken to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia by his mother several hours later. Following the incident, police apprehended a male suspect who is believed to be in a similar age demographic as the victims. However, law enforcement officials, including Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore, indicated that it remains unclear what role this individual played in the altercation. Authorities are now investigating the events leading up to the gunfire and are actively searching for video footage to help piece together the timeline of events. Witnesses described a scene of chaos, with bystanders instinctively rushing to protect their children as police sirens filled the air. One witness indicated that they were in the vicinity shortly before the shooting occurred and expressed shock upon returning to find the area cordoned off by police tape. The incident, which transpired during a festive time at Dilworth Park where the Christmas Village was attracting visitors, prompted an immediate police response, with officers present at the scene hearing the initial shots fired. In the aftermath of the shooting, authorities moved to secure the area, closing Dilworth Park for the remainder of Friday night, ultimately planning to reopen it on Saturday morning. The police have urged any individuals with information about the incident to come forward and contact them, emphasizing the severe implications of gun violence, particularly involving minors. This tragic event highlights ongoing concerns about youth violence and gun accessibility, echoing sentiments shared by many who witnessed the alarming scene unfold.