Crime
Multi-Victim Shooting Near Widener University Campus Leaves Four Injured at Uno Pizzeria & Grill in Chester
CHESTER, Pa. (Delaware County) — A large police response was underway Wednesday night following a multi-victim shooting near Uno Pizzeria & Grill on the campus of Widener University, where at least four people were reportedly struck by gunfire.
According to preliminary information from emergency dispatch communications, police and emergency medical personnel were called to the area of Providence Avenue near Uno Pizzeria & Grill after reports of multiple shots fired.
Responding officers found several victims suffering from gunshot wounds and immediately requested additional EMS units to the scene.
Authorities indicated that four individuals were reported shot during the incident. Among the victims was a female who sustained a gunshot wound to the upper body and a 17-year-old male who was reportedly shot in the chest.
The conditions of the victims have not yet been officially released.
The shooting occurred near Uno Pizzeria & Grill, located on or adjacent to the Widener University campus in Chester.
Police quickly secured the area while emergency responders treated the injured and transported victims to local hospitals for medical care.
Investigators have not yet released details regarding what led to the shooting, whether any suspects have been identified, or if any arrests have been made. Authorities also have not confirmed whether the victims were students, university affiliates, or members of the public.
Law enforcement officers remained at the scene late into the evening collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working to determine the circumstances surrounding the violence.
The Chester Police Department is leading the investigation. Officials are expected to provide additional information as the investigation develops and more facts become available.
Anyone with information regarding the shooting is encouraged to contact law enforcement as investigators continue working to identify those responsible and determine what led to the incident.
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.