The city of Philadelphia is reeling after a spate of shootings that have left eight high school students wounded as they waited for a public bus after school on Wednesday. The students, who attend Northeast High School, were shot at a bus stop near a Dunkin’ Donuts just over a half-mile from the school.
According to Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin J. Bethel, as the students were preparing to board a bus, three individuals got out of a nearby car and opened fire, shooting at least 30 times. The students, ranging in age from 15 to 17, sustained injuries, with one in critical condition after being shot multiple times.
In addition to the students, two buses were also struck by gunfire, although no passengers were injured. This incident comes after 11 young people were shot while going to and from school in Philadelphia over the last three days.
The recent shootings have sparked outrage in the city, with Commissioner Bethel calling the acts “unacceptable.” Philadelphia School District Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. expressed his grief and anger over the senseless violence, stating that crisis counselors would be sent to Northeast High School to support the affected students.
In response to the shootings, SEPTA Transit Police Chief Charles Lawson announced plans to crack down on fare evasion, open drug use, and illegal gun possession on or near SEPTA buses. Despite a decrease in overall crime rates, gun violence remains a significant concern for law enforcement in the city.
Philadelphia has seen a decrease in homicides compared to previous years, with 55 recorded so far this year. However, the recent spate of shootings has highlighted the ongoing issue of gun violence in the city, prompting calls for action to ensure the safety of residents, especially young students.
