A 49-year-old man was shot to death Friday evening after an argument on the 1700 block of North 31st Street in Strawberry Mansion, according to police. Officers found the victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds and rushed him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead at about 7:26 p.m. Investigators say the confrontation involved another man who was seen wearing a jacket and a black chef’s apron.
What police say
Inspector D. F. Pace told NBC10 Philadelphia the shooting happened just after 7 p.m., and that detectives recovered drug paraphernalia, a gun and a cell phone they believe belonged to the man who died. Police also reported that a white Alfa Romeo sedan was parked at the scene and that they think the victim may have been inside the car before the incident. Officials said there is no danger to the wider community while investigators process the scene.
Neighborhood context
The killing comes as citywide totals remain well below pandemic highs. Philadelphia recorded its fewest homicides in nearly 60 years in 2025, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer. Reporting by The Trace shows the city has invested in community violence intervention programs even as isolated shootings continue to erupt.
Strawberry Mansion has felt that tension firsthand. Local coverage earlier this year documented a March shooting on Oakdale Street that wounded two people in the neighborhood, underscoring how single incidents can still rattle residents. One account headlined gunfire rips through Oakdale Street described the fear that lingers after the crime scene tape comes down.
Video and evidence
Pace said city-owned surveillance cameras captured the entire incident and that investigators believe the pair argued before the shooting, with the suspect seen wearing a jacket and a black chef’s apron, according to the account provided to NBC10 Philadelphia. Detectives continue to review footage and interview witnesses as they work to identify the shooter. No arrests have been announced.
How to help investigators
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Philadelphia Police Department’s Shooting Investigation Group at 215-686-8270 or the anonymous tip line at 215-686-TIPS (8477). Tips may also be submitted through the department’s online tip form. For guidance on submitting video or photos, see the Philadelphia Police Department’s tip page at phillypolice.com.
Investigators are asking anyone with video or details to come forward. This story will be updated as police release additional information.
