Armed car owner shoots 2 teens during attempted car theft in Philadelphia

A southwest Philadelphia man defended himself and his property earlier this month after four juveniles allegedly attempted to steal his vehicle. Two of the suspects, both 13 years old, were shot and later transported to the hospital in stable condition.

According to authorities, the incident unfolded about 6:13 p.m. in the 5900 block of Windsor Street when a neighbor alerted the vehicle owner that a group of teenagers was attempting to break into his Honda. The man, who is legally licensed to carry a firearm, went outside to confront the suspects.

Police say that during the confrontation, one of the teenagers pulled a firearm. In response, the vehicle owner, a lawful gun owner with a concealed carry permit, fired at least seven shots, striking two of the suspects. The wounded teens fled the scene but were later located one block away and transported to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for treatment. The other two suspects managed to escape but were quickly apprehended by police a few blocks away.

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Authorities confirmed that the entire incident was captured on private surveillance video. Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small stated that detectives are still investigating whether the teenage suspect who pulled a gun fired any shots. As of this publication, the firearm allegedly used by the teen had not been recovered.

Local residents expressed mixed reactions to the shooting, with some sympathizing with the juveniles due to their young age and others supporting the car owner’s right to defend his property and himself when faced with a threat. Community outreach workers have since offered support and resources to those affected by the incident.

The suspects are facing potential charges, including attempted auto theft, robbery, weapons violations, and attempted carjacking. The district attorney’s office will ultimately determine what charges, if any, will be filed.

Meanwhile, the vehicle owner is cooperating fully with the investigation, and no charges have been filed against him at this time.

Police are urging anyone with additional information about the case to contact the Philadelphia Police Department’s Shooting Investigations Group at 215-686-8270 or leave an anonymous tip at 215-686-TIPS (8477).

Republished with permission from AmmoLand.

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