Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Penn State Senior Billy Schmidt in South Philly; Suspects on the Loose

Tragedy struck South Philadelphia early Saturday when a young life was abruptly ended. Billy Schmidt, a 22-year-old senior at Penn State, was fatally shot just steps away from his family home. As authorities continue to search for the culprits, the community is left grieving and seeking answers.

On the fateful night, Schmidt was making his way home around 1:30 a.m. after spending an evening at a local bar enjoying the NBA Finals with friends. It was on the 1900 block of Durfor Street where his life was tragically cut short. “He was a really good person who cared about everybody and never hurt or bothered a soul,” lamented his father, Bill Schmidt, highlighting the senseless nature of the crime.

Surveillance footage from nearby cameras provides some insight into the moments preceding the shooting. The video shows a man throwing a cell phone, followed by another man, believed to be the gunman, sprinting around a corner with Schmidt in pursuit. The chilling footage captures the gunman turning and firing a shot that struck Schmidt in the chest.

In the aftermath of the incident, Bill Schmidt discovered his son’s phone beneath a car and promptly handed it over to law enforcement in hopes that it might aid in the investigation. As the search for the suspects continues, the community holds onto hope for justice for Billy Schmidt.

Bill Schmidt said he found his son’s phone under a car and turned it over to police.

“I’m shocked when they stole his phone that he chased them. The kid he is very lowkey supposedly when he got to the corner another came out and he shot him,” he said.

Neighbors began creating a memorial at the location where Schmidt was shot, directly across the street from where he lived.

“The neighbors we come together it’s really important it’s sad we have to come together over a death,” said South Philadelphia resident Michael Smith.

Neighbors have also assisted investigators by providing surveillance footage. One video shows two men walking, with one turning around and appearing to speak with Schmidt. Schmidt then follows the man. Another video shows one person ducking behind parked cars while the other runs away.

“I want to find the two people and make them pay,” Bill Schmidt said.

Police have not announced any arrests. While the incident appears to be an attempted robbery, investigators have not released a motive.