A 16-year-old male was found deceased from a gunshot wound in a Chipotle restaurant bathroom in North Philadelphia, near Temple University. Authorities have identified the victim as Khyon Smith-Tate and are currently searching for three individuals in connection with the incident.
Incident Details
The incident occurred around 5:15 p.m. on Monday at the Chipotle located on the 1100 block of Montgomery Avenue. A restaurant employee discovered the teenager, who had sustained a gunshot wound to the chest. Police confirmed the victim was pronounced dead inside the bathroom.
Investigation and Victim Identification
Philadelphia police identified the victim as 16-year-old Khyon Smith-Tate, who resided on the 2500 block of North Hutchinson Street.
Chief Inspector Scott Small of the Philadelphia Police Department stated that preliminary information suggests the victim entered the restroom with at least one other juvenile male after they requested keys from staff. Investigators located one spent shell casing inside the bathroom, indicating that at least one shot was fired from a semi-automatic weapon.
Suspect Search and Context
Authorities are currently searching for three potential suspects, all believed to be males between 16 and 17 years old. As of the current report, no arrests have been made.
The shooting occurred on the first day students returned from winter break at Temple University. Police noted that the Chipotle restaurant was crowded at the time of the incident.
Temple University issued a statement acknowledging the incident's impact on the community and encouraged students to utilize available support services.
Call for Information
Authorities are requesting anyone with information regarding the incident to contact Philadelphia police by calling or texting 215-686-TIPS (8477), or by submitting an anonymous tip online.