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Police: 7-Year-Old Fighting For Life After Being Shot In West Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A 7-year-old boy is fighting for his life after being shot in the head in West Philadelphia, police said Saturday night. It happened around 7:30 p.m. on the 200 block of North Simpson Street.

Authorities said the boy was sitting on his front porch playing with a toy when gunshots rang out, one of them striking him in the head.

Police said some of the shooting came from the Chevy Silverado truck. It crashed into the SUV in front while trying to get away. The shooter fled on foot, authorities said, and that's how police were able to capture him blocks away.

Police said the child was rushed to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

The boy was placed in critical condition, according to authorities.

Authorities said an arrest was made but it's unclear if he was the shooter. No weapon has recovered.

"We are heartbroken by the tragedy that occurred this evening on the 200 block of Simpson Street. An innocent [7]-year-old was struck by gunfire and is in grave condition. Although an individual has been taken into custody, that does not diminish the impact this senseless act has on the child, his family, and the entire community," Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw said in a statement.

"Criminal acts such as this have no place in our communities, and we are committed to securing justice and promoting healing for all who are affected. While every act of gun violence is lamentable, it is especially tragic when the victim is among our most vulnerable; and it is our collective responsibility -- police, and community -- to ensure that our children are safe and well-protected. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the precious child and his family."

Outlaw says said counted at least 15 shell casings at the scene.

Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr. says the block isn't new to violence. There is a lot of group-on-group crime, but it is also a block plagued by people that don't know how to be good neighbors, Jones said.

An investigation remains ongoing.

CBS3's Alecia Reid contributed to this report.

For a list of gun violence resources in Philadelphia, click here.

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