A deadly confrontation unfolded last night in a Point Breeze corner store when a 35-year-old man was shot and killed following an argument with two women, law enforcement officials report. The incident occurred inside the Federal Deli Market located at the intersection of South 20th and Federal streets, according to Philadelphia police, who responded to the scene around 6:40 p.m., as NBC Philadelphia detailed.
Authorities revealed that a verbal altercation escalated into a physical one before one of the women reportedly pulled a handgun and opened fire, striking the victim—who has yet to be named—multiple times, including three shots to the torso and one to the leg. He was later pronounced dead at Jefferson University Hospital, as reported by 6abc. Small stated that surveillance video indicated at least five rounds were fired from a semiautomatic weapon inside the store.
Following the shooting, the two suspected assailants fled the scene, heading in opposite directions, adding to the urgency of the police search for them, according to FOX 29. At least one of the women is believed to frequent the store regularly. Store employees recounted hearing the initial dispute, which soon after led to the fatal shooting. Police have not yet provided descriptions of the women wanted in connection with the incident.
While the motives behind the charged confrontation remain a mystery, the community and authorities are grappling with the tragic reality of gun violence, which authorities noted is further underscored by the unusual involvement of female suspects. "That's when we know one of the females pulled a handgun and fired at least five shots," Chief Inspector Scott Small told, reflecting a rare narrative in the city's ongoing struggle with shootings, as reported by 6abc. Philadelphia Police are asking anyone with information to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
