Crime
Two wounded after shooting at Broad and Packer in South Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA, PA — Authorities are investigating a double shooting and vehicle crash that unfolded near Broad Street and Packer Avenue in South Philadelphia, creating a large and active crime scene.
According to preliminary reports from the Philadelphia Police Department’s 3rd District, officers responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire in the area.
Upon arrival, officers located a vehicle crash and a male victim suffering from two gunshot wounds to the chest inside one of the vehicles.
The victim was treated at the scene by Philadelphia Fire Department Medic 11 and transported to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, where he remains in extremely critical condition and unresponsive, officials said.
A second male victim was found a short distance away after witnesses reported that he had run into Chickie’s & Pete’s restaurant seeking help following the gunfire.
Officers located the man inside with a gunshot wound to the abdomen.
He was transported by Medic 112 to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, where he is listed in critical condition.
Investigators believe the incident began near Broad and Juniper Streets, when the shooter—driving a black Acura SUV—opened fire on the driver of an Audi. The gunfire continued as both vehicles traveled toward Broad and Packer, where the Audi ultimately crashed into a Toyota Corolla.
The driver of the Toyota told police that the suspect continued firing several additional rounds into the Audi before fleeing the scene at high speed.
It remains unclear how the second victim is connected to the incident or at what exact location he was struck by gunfire.
Police have recovered a large number of shell casings, with approximately 10 found near one location and 8 more at another, indicating multiple active crime scenes stretching across several blocks.
Officers have cordoned off the area, and traffic along Broad Street from Oregon Avenue to Packer Avenue remains heavily restricted as the Philadelphia Shooting Investigation Group processes evidence and reviews surveillance footage.
The suspect remains at large, and the motive for the shooting is under active investigation.
Crime
17-Year-Old Javohn Pitts Critically Injured in Accidental Shooting During FaceTime Call in Elsmere, Kentucky
A 17-year-old teenager, identified as Javohn Pitts, remains in critical condition after being shot in the head during an incident involving a handgun at a residence in Elsmere, Kentucky, on Saturday. Police say the shooting appears to have occurred while two juveniles were showing the firearm to others during a FaceTime call.
The incident prompted an emergency response in Northern Kentucky and left the teenager with potentially life-threatening injuries. He was transported by helicopter to a Cincinnati hospital, where he continues to receive medical treatment.
According to the Elsmere Police Department, officers were dispatched to a reported shooting in the 100 block of Garvey Avenue early Saturday afternoon.
When first responders arrived, they found Javohn Pitts suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, emergency personnel arranged for him to be airlifted to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
Pitts remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to the information provided by police. Authorities have not released further details about his medical condition or prognosis.
During their investigation, police recovered a 9mm handgun from the residence.
Investigators believe the shooting happened while Pitts and another juvenile, who was acquainted with him, were displaying the handgun to other people during a FaceTime call. At some point during the incident, the firearm discharged, striking Pitts in the head.
Although the incident is being described as an apparent accidental shooting, authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge and the events leading up to it.
A juvenile suspect was subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. Police reported that the suspect was acquainted with Pitts and has been charged with second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.
Because the individual is a juvenile, authorities have not publicly released the suspect’s identity.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information about the incident may be released as authorities continue reviewing the evidence.
Police are asking anyone who may have information about the shooting to contact the Kenton County Emergency Communication Center at 859-356-3191 or the Elsmere Police Department at 859-474-4785.
Information from witnesses or anyone familiar with the circumstances may help investigators establish a clearer account of what happened inside the Garvey Avenue residence.
At just 17 years old, Javohn Pitts is facing a serious medical battle following the shooting. His critical condition has left those who care about him hoping for positive news as he receives treatment.
The incident is also a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with handling firearms, particularly when a weapon is displayed or handled without proper safety precautions. A firearm can discharge unexpectedly, with consequences that may permanently change lives.
As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with Javohn Pitts, his family, and everyone hoping for his recovery. May he receive the care and support he needs during this difficult time.