12-year-old killed by teenager in West Philadelphia during music video filming, according to police.

In a tragic incident on Saturday afternoon in West Oak Lane, a 12-year-old boy, identified as Ethan Parker, was fatally shot by a 17-year-old, Marvin Playfair, while the two were engaged in a music recording session. According to police reports, the shooting occurred when Playfair, who was reportedly dancing with a 9mm handgun, accidentally discharged the weapon, striking Parker in the chest.

Authorities revealed during a press conference that Playfair has been charged with third-degree murder, involuntary manslaughter, and related offenses. The case is being prosecuted in adult court, as confirmed by District Attorney Larry Krasner. In the aftermath of the shooting, Ethan Parker was quickly transported to Jefferson Einstein Philadelphia Hospital, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Initial statements from law enforcement suggested that the fatality took place during the filming of a music video; however, Assistant District Attorney Robert Wainwright clarified that the two boys were solely recording music, not creating a video. They were on the 1500 block of East Pastorius Avenue when the incident transpired. It was noted that Playfair was handling a handgun adorned with rubber bands and a sticker featuring legendary basketball icon Michael Jordan.

As investigators pieced together events leading to the shooting, they discovered a history of Playfair posing with the firearm in social media posts. Notably, Wainwright indicated that Playfair had exhibited troubling behavior in the past, including incidents of pointing firearms at others, raising further questions about his culpability in this incident.

While the nature of the shooting is believed to be accidental, authorities highlighted Playfair’s prior conduct and the assumption that he was aware the gun was loaded. This recklessness, coupled with a disregard for safety, led to the tragic outcome, characterized by Wainwright as criminally negligent. He underscored the severity of the actions involved, stating that pulling the trigger or cocking a gun while pointing it at someone, especially when aware of its loaded status, constitutes responsibility for the resulting death.

The public has been urged to assist in the investigation by contacting the Philadelphia Police Department’s tip line. This incident underscores ongoing concerns regarding youth access to firearms and the associated risks, igniting further discussions about gun safety in communities.