13-year-old hospitalized in critical condition following shooting by an adult.
A Philadelphia teenager is currently hospitalized after sustaining serious injuries from a shooting incident in the Kingsessing neighborhood. The incident occurred on Thursday evening at approximately 6:40 p.m. when a 13-year-old boy became involved in a physical altercation at the intersection of 57th Street and Kingsessing Avenue.
During the confrontation, a 43-year-old man, identified as a relative of one of the individuals involved in the fight, emerged from a nearby residence and fired a weapon, striking the teenager twice in the abdomen. The young victim was subsequently transported to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where medical reports confirm that his condition stabilized as of Friday morning.
Authorities have identified the suspect as Keith Holmes, who remains at large following the events of the shooting. An arrest warrant has been issued for Holmes, charging him with aggravated assault and various firearm-related offenses. Philadelphia police have urged the public to assist in their search by providing any information regarding Holmes’s whereabouts. Citizens are encouraged to call the police tip line at 215-686-TIPS (8477) or dial 911.
This incident adds to the ongoing concerns regarding gun violence in the city. As of Thursday, Philadelphia police reported a total of 432 shooting incidents in 2025, marking a 26% decrease compared to the same period in the previous year. Furthermore, there have been 227 shooting victims across the city thus far this year, which also reflects a downward trend compared to last year’s figures.
In a broader context, the overall number of shootings in Philadelphia experienced a dramatic decline in 2024, with the police recording 1,081 shooting incidents for the entire year. This figure represents a 50% decrease compared to 2013 and is the lowest annual total since 2014.
Local officials continue to address the critical issue of gun violence, and with this latest incident, the community and law enforcement remain vigilant in their efforts to ensure safety. As investigations unfold, updates will be provided to further inform the public about the case and community responses to increasing concerns surrounding gun violence.
This is a developing story, and additional details will be available as they emerge.