Panic ensued at a Philly bus stop as 8 teens came under a hail of bullets in the latest shocking act of violence to rock the city’s transit system.
In the space of just 4 days, 3 separate shootings on SEPTA had left lives cut tragically short. So when gunmen unleashed over 30 shots at the Northeast HS students after class let out, terror struck yet again.
One 16-year-old was critically hurt, struck a startling 9 times. Others sustained injuries but thankfully pulled through. Nearby Crossan Elementary immediately went into lockdown as frantic parents raced to the scene.
Mayor Parker, joined by police and school leaders, vowed, “Enough is enough” in the heartbroken city. As a troubled community reeled in the aftermath, questions mounted over why such brazen bloodshed continued unabated.
Transit chief Lawson said too many were illegally toting heat, and sparks flew too readily. Crackdowns would target fare evaders and open drug use, too. However, safety seemed a vanishing prospect for residents like Jessica with “things…worse, but that’s life.”
Brenda stayed determined not to let violence disrupt her routine. Yet as the injured teens fought to heal, and a neighborhood stayed on edge, most could only watch and pray this latest outbreak might finally mark a turning point from the chaos. One thing was clear – Philadelphia’s youth deserve so much better.
