Woman shot and killed execution-style on Philly street, arrest made

A woman was fatally shot in Center City Philadelphia on Friday evening, and police say one suspect is in custody. The shooting occurred just before 6 pm at 12th and Chestnut streets, outside a 7-Eleven along one of the city’s busiest corridors. The incident was recorded on video and took place in full view of pedestrians and nearby businesses, reports the local ABC affiliate. 

Police said the victim was rushed to Jefferson Hospital, where she was pronounced dead roughly 90 minutes later. Her identity has not been made public. The suspect is now in custody.

Footage reviewed by investigators shows three people involved in the confrontation. One woman appeared to be attempting to pull a man away from another woman before the situation escalated. The video then shows the man pointing a firearm at a woman lying on the ground and opening fire. Witnesses nearby can be heard shouting, including one who exclaimed, "Oh my God!"

Authorities have not confirmed the relationship between the individuals or what triggered the violence.

According to law enforcement sources, investigators are reviewing whether one of the women may have been armed and if the gun was taken from her during the struggle.

Casey Boultinghouse, a resident who was leaving for a bike ride at the time, said he heard the shots and saw first responders arrive quickly. "They hauled the girl off in the ambulance — that happened really quick," he told reporters. "She was getting loaded up when I got here."

At least two shell casings were recovered at the scene. Detectives also marked several pieces of evidence in the immediate area as the investigation continued into the night.

Some witnesses told police they recognized the individuals involved and believed they may have been homeless.

Police have not yet announced charges.