Watch CBS News

Teen Fighting For His Life After Being Shot In Back Of Head In Schoolyard In Kingsessing, Police Say

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A 14-year-old boy is fighting for his life after police say he was shot in the back of his head in a Southwest Philadelphia schoolyard. The incident happened shortly after 7 p.m. on the 5700 block of Willows Avenue in the city's Kingsessing neighborhood on Saturday.

Police say the teenager was shot at least once in the back of his head in broad daylight on a playground at William C. Longstreth Elementary School. It's possible he was struck twice by gunfire, according to police.

"We believe it happened in the schoolyard and it appears that some other people that were in the area moved him into the street, which is where we found him and took him to the hospital," Philadelphia Police Capt. Lee Strollo said.

The victim was rushed to Penn Presbyterian Hospital and placed in critical condition.

Authorities say it's unsure if the teen was the intended target.

According to police, the shooter -- a male -- possibly fled the scene in a burgundy colored Chevrolet Malibu.

Five or six shell casings were found on the scene, some in the schoolyard and some in the street.

Police are calling it another senseless shooting.

"It's very sad and it's very sad that it affects the children in the area," Strollo said. "Like I said, we don't know if he was the intended target, but it's still sad that it affects somebody that young."

Driver Wanted In North Philadelphia Hit-And-Run Confirms He Was Involved In Accident, Police Say

One neighbor says when it comes to gun violence in the city, they've had enough.

"Just sad. Right before school, end of summer. Sad," neighbor Jasmine Bell said. "I'm just praying for the city, for peace and comfort and just peace."

No arrests have been made at this time.

Police say there is both private and school surveillance cameras on the block, which they're seeking to gain access to.

An active investigation remains ongoing.

CBS3's Chantee Lans contributed to this report.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.