Penn State student shot and killed near family’s home in Philadelphia
Penn State student Billy Schmidt was fatally shot near his family’s Philadelphia home in a case that has shaken relatives, classmates and the broader community. Surveillance footage shows the moments before the shooting, after Schmidt appeared to try to recover his phone from two suspects. His sister, Anna Schmidt, has made an emotional public appeal for justice, while Penn State has offered condolences and Philadelphia police continue to pursue those believed to be responsible.
Philadelphia authorities have issued arrest warrants for two 16-year-olds accused in Schmidt’s June 6 killing, which occurred as he was walking home after attending an NBA Finals watch party.
A Philadelphia Police Department spokesperson told News Agency that warrants were obtained for two teenage boys, both 16 years old. News Agency is not publishing their names because they are minors and have not yet been formally charged.
Schmidt, 22, was killed during what police described as an attempted armed robbery around 1:30 a.m. on June 6. Responding officers found the Penn State student suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 1:47 a.m.
The two teens remain at large.
Billy Schmidt was fatally shot in Philadelphia. (Bill Schmidt)
In surveillance footage reviewed in the investigation, Schmidt can be heard saying, “Give me my phone,” shortly before a gunshot rings out. The video appears to show one person throwing a cellphone, followed by another individual running around a corner as Schmidt gives chase. Moments later, Schmidt was shot in the chest.
Police described the alleged shooter as a Black male, approximately 5 feet 3 inches to 5 feet 5 inches tall, dressed entirely in dark or black clothing and wearing a light gray camouflage-style face mask. Investigators said the suspect was carrying a handgun.
Police released security video of the two suspects. (Philadelphia Police Department)
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The second suspect was described by police as 5’8″ with braids and was “wearing a light gray colored custom designed “KONFUSED” brand hooded sweatshirt with a design on the front that includes three skulls and crossbones with a bejeweled halo above each skull.”
The U.S. Marshals Service has also joined the search for the teens, offering $5,000 for information leading to their arrest.
Bill Schmidt, the victim’s father, told ABC7 that his son was on his way home from a bar where he was watching the NBA Finals with friends.
“He was a really good person who cared about everybody and never hurt or bothered a soul, never bothered anyone and for him to get shot like that is a travesty,” Bill Schmidt said. “I’m shocked when they stole his phone that he chased them.”
Police released video of the two suspects in the killing and murder of Billy Schmidt. (Philadelphia Police Department)
Anna Schmidt, Billy’s sister, told reporters she doesn’t know how anyone could have killed her brother.
“I miss him so much, and I don’t understand how someone can do this,” Anna Schmidt said.
Schmidt was a student at Penn State World Campus studying journalism, where he was set to graduate in December.
“We are heartbroken over the tragic death of William Schmidt and we share our deepest condolences with his family and friends,” the university said in a statement to News Agency.
Police are urging anyone with information on the suspects’ whereabouts to contact 215-686-TIPS.
