A late-night stop at a West Philadelphia gas station turned into a near-fatal ambush early Monday, leaving a man in critical condition after he was shot five times, according to police. The gunfire erupted around 12:30 a.m. near 38th Street and the 3700 block of West Girard Avenue. So far, investigators have not released any details about a suspect or a possible motive, and the case remains under investigation.
Police account
As reported by NBC10 Philadelphia, officers arrived to find the victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. They rushed him to a nearby hospital, where he was listed in critical condition. The outlet notes the man was struck five times and that, as of about 7:45 a.m., police had not identified any suspects. The shooting took place at a gas station on the 3700 block of West Girard Avenue at 38th Street.
Violence across the city
The call from the gas station came during what local outlets described as an especially violent night, with several shootings reported across Philadelphia. 6abc/Action News detailed multiple overnight incidents, including a case near Cambridge Street where a homeowner told police she fired at someone trying to get into her house. Detectives say they are working to determine whether any of the separate incidents are connected.
Recent trend in West Philly
The gas station attack adds to a string of shootings in West Philadelphia this month that has residents and officials increasingly on edge. On May 12, four people were wounded in a shooting on North 42nd Street, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer, highlighting what many see as a troubling surge in neighborhood gun violence. Local advocates and public-safety officials have been pushing for more resources and faster case clearances as investigators work through the growing stack of cases.
How to help
Police are asking anyone who knows anything about Monday’s gas station shooting to come forward. The City of Philadelphia advises residents they can call or text 215-686-TIPS (8477), email [email protected], or use the city’s online tip form to share information. For emergencies or immediate concerns, authorities urge people to call 911.
