Police say an eleven-year-old Harley Belance, who was shot dead in the Oxford Circle section of the city, was riding a scooter with a friend.
On Saturday, dozens gathered at the scene and dropped balloons in his memory.
Among the crowd was Suzanne Hatcher, who says Harley was her son’s best friend.
“We’re asleep. We’re asleep. Too young. He’s a baby. It should never have happened,” Hatcher said.
Police say Harley and a 14-year-old friend were riding a scooter in the 1500 block of McKinley Street on Friday just before 7 p.m. when shots were fired.
Harley was shot in the neck and killed, according to officials.
His friend was shot in the arm and ankle and is in stable condition.
Officials say a man was seen firing shots from the 1400 block of McKinley Street.
On the eve, people called for an end to armed violence.
“When it happens, guess who’s left to clean up the mess? The women in our community. So for every young person who’s here I want you to sit down and watch your life,” said Terence Harrell, who runs the account. social media @nogunzone dedicated to highlighting the weight of gun violence in Philadelphia.
Harley, was described as a vibrant young man who loved being with his friends.
Action News spoke to a family friend who did not want to be identified.
“His personality has always been so open and bright. And to see him like that, to hear this news is crazy. My heart is crushed,” he said.
Police say it is unclear whether Harley and his friend were the targets of the shooting.
So far, no arrests have been made.
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