Mass Shooting in Philadelphia Leaves Five Dead: Suspect Identified and Arrested

Mass Shooting in Philadelphia Leaves Five Dead, Suspect in Custody

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — A mass shooting in Philadelphia on Monday night has left five people dead and several others injured. The suspect, identified as Kimbrady Carriker, 40, of the 5600 block of Belmar Terrace, has been arrested and is expected to face multiple counts of murder.

The shooting occurred around 8:30 p.m. in the Kingsessing neighborhood, near the intersection of 56th Street and Chester Avenue. Police received multiple 911 calls reporting the incident, and officers quickly arrived at the scene.

According to witnesses, Carriker opened fire on the street, firing at least 50 shots and striking multiple vehicles. As officers began to assist the victims and transport them to the hospital, they heard more gunfire and immediately ran towards the sound.

Officers were able to chase down and apprehend Carriker in the rear alley of 1600 Frazier Street. He was wearing a bulletproof vest and was found in possession of an AR-style rifle, a handgun, multiple magazines, and a police scanner.

The victims of the shooting have been identified as Daujan Brown, 15, Lashyd Merritt, 22, Dymir Stanton, 29, Joseph Wamah Jr., 31, and Ralph Moralis, 59. Two children, a 2-year-old boy and a 13-year-old boy, were also shot and wounded. Additionally, a 33-year-old woman, who is the mother of the 2-year-olds, and another 2-year-old boy were injured by flying glass.

Police have not yet determined a motive for the shooting, and there is no immediate connection known between the victims and the suspect. District Attorney Larry Krasner expects Carriker to be charged soon with multiple counts of murder.

“This was an unimaginably disgusting and horrifying incident,” said Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw at a news conference. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families during this difficult time.”

The community has been left in shock and mourning following the tragic event. Family members of the victims gathered outside Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, where they received the devastating news of their loved ones’ deaths.

Juliet Clarke, whose grandchild’s father was one of the victims, expressed her disbelief and fear. “I just came to get my grandbaby and my daughter and take them to the hospital. I came back and my house is in a crime scene. I can’t even go into my house,” she said. “It’s just not safe anywhere.”

Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and are reviewing video footage that is believed to show the suspect shooting on South 56th Street. The motive for the shooting remains unknown.

As the community grapples with this senseless act of violence, Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small emphasized the need for unity and support. “We must come together as a community to support one another during this difficult time,” he said.

The two injured children are currently in stable condition at an area hospital. A second person was taken into custody for allegedly firing shots at the suspect during the incident.

The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is urged to contact the Philadelphia Police Department.

How can comprehensive gun control measures help prevent incidents like the Philadelphia mass shooting?

D in the incident and are currently receiving medical treatment.

Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the shooting. However, initial reports suggest that Carriker may have been targeting specific individuals, as some of the victims were known to him. The investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the case.

Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney expressed his condolences and called the incident a tragedy for the city. “We must come together as a community to support the victims and their families during this difficult time,” he said in a statement. “Gun violence has no place in our society, and we will do everything in our power to bring justice to those affected by this senseless act.”

In response to the shooting, local community leaders and activists are calling for stricter gun control measures to prevent future tragedies. Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf also expressed his concerns, stating that “we must take action to end these horrific acts of violence and ensure the safety of our residents.”

The mass shooting in Philadelphia is a stark reminder of the ongoing gun violence problem that plagues many cities across the United States. It highlights the urgent need for comprehensive solutions and effective measures to address this issue and ensure the safety and well-being of all communities.