An 83-year-old woman was hospitalized after being struck by stray gunfire while sitting outside her home during a shooting in North Philadelphia, police said.
The shooting happened Wednesday evening, Sept. 30, on the 2300 block of North Gratz Street. Police said the woman was sitting on her front porch when she was hit twice in the torso.
She was taken to a nearby hospital and was listed in stable condition.
Police believe multiple people were involved
Philadelphia police said the gunfire appeared to involve people in two vehicles. Investigators are examining the possibility that two individuals or groups were exchanging gunfire, although the exact circumstances and intended target remain under investigation.
Surveillance cameras captured the incident, according to Chief Inspector Scott Small.
Investigators said video showed a blue sedan traveling east on Dauphin Street before stopping near Gratz Street. A man then got out of the vehicle and began firing down the block before returning to the car.
Police said the sedan was reported stolen earlier that day. It was last seen traveling east on Dauphin Street toward 18th Street.
More than 40 shots fired
The shooting left a large amount of evidence across the neighborhood. Police said more than 40 spent shell casings were recovered, with investigators determining that they came from two different semi-automatic weapons.
Officers also found a white sedan that had been struck by multiple bullets. The vehicle went over a curb and hit a telephone pole, which fell onto the car. The engine was still running when police arrived, according to investigators.
No one was found inside the vehicle, but police said a firearm was visible inside and was recovered as part of the investigation.
Investigation continues
Police have not announced any arrests in connection with the shooting.
Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and other evidence as they work to identify those involved and determine what led to the gunfire.
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Philadelphia Police Department at 215-686-TIPS (8477).
