Philadelphia police have issued arrest warrants for two teenage suspects, both 16 years old, in connection with the fatal shooting of Penn State student Billy Schmidt. The 22-year-old was killed on June 6 while reportedly returning home from an NBA Finals watch party. The two individuals identified by authorities are not yet in custody.
The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. on June 6, when Schmidt was confronted during an attempted armed robbery. Officers discovered the Penn State student with a gunshot wound to his chest. He was transported to a local hospital but was pronounced deceased a short time later at 1:47 a.m.
Surveillance footage captured audio of Schmidt reportedly stating, "Give me my phone," just moments before a gunshot was heard. The video shows an individual discarding a cell phone, followed by another person running around a corner. Schmidt is then seen pursuing this individual before being shot in the chest.
Investigation Underway
Law enforcement has described the alleged shooter as a Black male, approximately 5'3" to 5'5" tall, wearing entirely dark (black) clothing and a light gray camouflage-colored facemask. This individual was reportedly armed with a handgun.
The second suspect is described as being 5'8" tall with braids. Police noted this individual was wearing a light gray custom-designed "KONFUSED" brand hooded sweatshirt featuring a design on the front that includes three skulls and crossbones, each adorned with a bejeweled halo.
The U.S. Marshals Service has joined the search efforts for the two teenagers and is offering a $5,000 reward for any information that leads to their apprehension.
Family Remembers Victim
Billy Schmidt's father, Bill Schmidt, shared that his son was on his way home from a bar where he had been 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 stated. "I'm shocked when they stole his phone that he chased them."
Anna Schmidt, Billy's sister, expressed her grief to reporters, saying she struggles to comprehend how someone could commit such an act against her brother. "I miss him so much, and I don't understand how someone can do this," she said.
Billy Schmidt was a journalism student enrolled at Penn State World Campus and was scheduled to graduate in December.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the suspects to contact 215-686-TIPS.