Penn State student shot and killed near family’s home in Philadelphia
In a tragic incident near his Philadelphia home, Penn State student Billy Schmidt lost his life. Surveillance footage shows he was fatally shot while attempting to reclaim his phone from two individuals. His sister, Anna Schmidt, made a heartfelt appeal for justice. In response, Penn State expressed condolences, and local authorities are actively working to find those accountable for this senseless act.
Philadelphia police have issued arrest warrants for two teenagers, both 16 years old, who are suspected of killing Billy Schmidt on June 6 as he returned from watching the NBA Finals.
A police spokesperson informed News Media that the warrants are for two boys aged 16. Their identities are being withheld as they are minors and have not yet been formally charged.
The incident on June 6, around 1:30 a.m., was an attempted armed robbery. Schmidt, 22, was found by officers with a gunshot wound to the chest. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead at 1:47 a.m.
As of now, the teenage suspects have not been apprehended.
Billy Schmidt was shot and killed in Philadelphia. (Bill Schmidt)
In surveillance video, Schmidt can be heard saying, “Give me my phone,” before a gunshot could be heard moments later. The video shows a man throwing a cellphone before another individual can be seen running around a corner being chased by Schmidt, who was then shot in the chest.
The shooter was described by police as a Black male between 5’3″ and 5’5″ “wearing all dark (black) clothing with a light gray camouflage-colored facemask.” Officials said this person was armed with a handgun.
Police released security video of the two suspects. (Philadelphia Police Department)
The second suspect was described by police as 5’8″ with braids and was “wearing a light gray colored custom designed “KONFUSED” brand hooded sweatshirt with a design on the front that includes three skulls and crossbones with a bejeweled halo above each skull.”
The U.S. Marshals Service has also joined the search for the teens, offering $5,000 for information leading to their arrest.
Bill Schmidt, the victim’s father, told ABC7 that his son was on his way home from a bar where he was watching the NBA Finals with friends.
“He was a really good person who cared about everybody and never hurt or bothered a soul, never bothered anyone and for him to get shot like that is a travesty,” Bill Schmidt said. “I’m shocked when they stole his phone that he chased them.”
Police released video of the two suspects in the killing and murder of Billy Schmidt. (Philadelphia Police Department)
Anna Schmidt, Billy’s sister, told reporters she doesn’t know how anyone could have killed her brother.
“I miss him so much, and I don’t understand how someone can do this,” Anna Schmidt said.
Schmidt was a student at Penn State World Campus studying journalism, where he was set to graduate in December.
“We are heartbroken over the tragic death of William Schmidt and we share our deepest condolences with his family and friends,” the university said in a statement to News Media.
Police are urging anyone with information on the suspects’ whereabouts to contact 215-686-TIPS.