On January 14, 2024, at approximately 12:50 a.m., Philadelphia Police responded to reports of gunfire on the 2400 block of North Myrtlewood Street in the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood. Upon arrival, officers discovered six individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. Among them was 41-year-old Christopher Smith, who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Officers transported him to Temple University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
Another victim, 53-year-old Edison Frazier, was found at the scene with a fatal gunshot wound to the face and was pronounced dead on-site. The four additional victims included a 42-year-old man with a gunshot wound to his hand, a 23-year-old woman shot in the left arm, a 28-year-old man with injuries to his leg and hip, and a 33-year-old woman shot in the arm. All were transported to Temple University Hospital and listed in stable condition.
Investigators believe the residence was operating as an illegal speakeasy at the time of the shooting. Evidence suggests that the assailant or assailants fired into the home from the street, targeting the front door and window. Multiple 9mm shell casings were recovered from the scene, indicating the use of semi-automatic firearms.
As of now, no arrests have been made, and authorities have not identified any suspects. The Philadelphia Police Department continues to investigate the incident and urges anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 215-686-TIPS (8477).
