Authorities in Philadelphia have launched a manhunt following the tragic shooting of a Pennsylvania State University student. The victim, 22-year-old Billy Schmidt, was shot in what appears to be an attempted armed robbery on Saturday.
According to the Philadelphia Police Department, Schmidt was near his home when the incident occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. Officers arriving at the scene found him with a gunshot wound to his chest. He was quickly transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 1:47 a.m.
Billy Schmidt had been returning from a bar where he watched the NBA Finals with friends, his father Bill Schmidt shared with ABC7. Security footage provided to police reveals that before the shooting, Billy Schmidt was seen asking for his phone back. Moments later, shots rang out, tragically claiming his life.
The security video captured the moment when a cellphone was thrown, and an individual was seen fleeing the area. Billy Schmidt pursued the person, which resulted in the fatal shooting. His father expressed disbelief, stating, “He was a really good person who cared about everybody and never hurt or bothered a soul. I’m shocked when they stole his phone that he chased them.”
Billy Schmidt, a senior at Penn State poised for graduation in December, was mourned by his sister Anna Schmidt. She described him as a “beloved brother, friend, and member of our community.” The family has raised over $48,000 through a GoFundMe campaign since the incident.
Despite extensive efforts, police have not yet made any arrests related to the killing. A local neighbor urged anyone who might recognize the suspects to assist authorities, saying, “I want justice, I want the kid that shot Billy to be found. If anyone’s out there that recognizes anything… they seem young to me.”
The loss of Billy Schmidt has left a profound impact on the community, and efforts continue to bring those responsible to justice.
Adam Sabes reports for Fox News Digital.