The end of Ramadan turned into chaos in Philadelphia as gunfire erupted, leaving at least three people injured. The event, called Eid al-Fitr, took place outside a big mosque in the Parkside neighborhood. Around 2:30 pm, about 30 shots were fired, according to the police.
Five people, including a 15-year-old boy, were taken into custody. The boy was shot by the police and had injuries on his leg and shoulder. Another man was shot in the stomach, and a young person had a hand wound. One girl was accidentally hit by a police vehicle while fleeing, causing a leg injury.
Witnesses described scenes of panic as attendees ran for cover, hiding behind trees or dropping to the ground. Many sought refuge in nearby buildings. Nearly 1,000 people were present at the event.
Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel stated that most attendees were peaceful and that the city was supporting the Islamic community. The aftermath of the shooting left debris scattered around the park, including blankets, strollers, and shoes.
Members of the mosque and volunteers began cleaning up the area, while some tried to reclaim their belongings left behind during the chaos. Zania Weatherford, who witnessed the incident, emphasized the significance of the celebration as a time of forgiveness and lamented the violence.
Thomas Allen, another witness, expressed shock at the incident, especially near a mosque, which he considered a place of peace.
The motive for the shooting remains unclear, and the suspects, including four males and one female, are under investigation.
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