3 Shot, 5 in Custody, Gunfire Disrupts Philadelphia Eid Event - WCCB Charlotte's CW

Gunfire erupts at Philadelphia Eid al-Fitr celebration, leaving three injured. Chaos ensues as hundreds flee in search of safety.

The joyful celebration of the end of Ramadan in Philadelphia took a terrifying turn as gunfire erupted, causing chaos and leaving three people injured. The annual Eid al-Fitr event, held outside a mosque in Parkside, was abruptly cut short by the sound of 30 shots around 2:30 p.m., leading to a frantic scene as parents and children fled in search of safety.

Five individuals, including a 15-year-old boy who was shot by police and hospitalized, were taken into custody. One man was shot in the stomach, and a juvenile victim suffered a hand wound. The situation escalated further when a police vehicle responding to the scene struck a 15-year-old girl, causing a leg injury.

Witnesses described the harrowing experience of seeking shelter from the gunfire, with some hiding behind trees or dropping to the ground to protect themselves and children. Attendees rushed to nearby tents, schools, and mosques in search of loved ones, while nearly 1,000 people were in attendance at the event.

Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel acknowledged the majority of attendees were peaceful individuals looking to enjoy the festivities. City officials extended their support to the Islamic community in the wake of the incident, as authorities worked to investigate and secure the area.

The aftermath of the shooting left Clara Muhammad Square littered with debris, abandoned belongings, and remnants of the celebration. Cleanup efforts began as members of the Masjid swept the streets and collected lost items for their owners. Despite the chaos, the community came together to reclaim their belongings and support one another.

The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, with four males and a female identified as suspects. The incident cast a shadow over the holiday of Eid al-Fitr, a time of celebration and reflection for Muslims around the world.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of the violence, residents like Zania Weatherford and Thomas Allen reflect on the impact of the shooting on their city. Weatherford recalls the fear and confusion of the moment, emphasizing the significance of the holiday as a time for forgiveness and spiritual renewal. Allen, a longtime resident, expresses shock at the proximity of the violence to the mosque, highlighting the rarity of such incidents in the area.

Despite the challenges faced, the spirit of unity and resilience shines through as the community comes together to support one another in the aftermath of the tragic events. Eid al-Fitr serves as a reminder of the importance of peace, compassion, and solidarity in the face of adversity.

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