In a shocking incident, a teenager was found shot to death inside the bathroom of a Chipotle restaurant located near the campus of Temple University. Philadelphia police have identified the victim as 16-year-old Khyon Smith-Tate, who resided on the 2500 block of North Hutchinson Street. This tragic event has raised concerns about safety and gun violence in the community.
According to police reports, the grim discovery was made around 5:15 p.m. on Monday at the Chipotle located on the 1100 block of Montgomery Avenue in North Philadelphia. Authorities revealed that Khyon was shot in the chest and was found by a restaurant employee. Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small stated, “We’re getting information that the 16-year-old victim was inside with at least one other juvenile male. They asked for keys to the restroom, and that’s when they both went in.”
Upon arrival, police officials confirmed that Khyon was pronounced dead inside the bathroom. Investigators found one spent shell casing at the scene, indicating that at least one shot was fired from a semi-automatic weapon. This incident occurred on the first day back from winter break for students at Temple University, making it even more unsettling for the community.
The Chipotle restaurant was reported to be crowded at the time of the shooting, as many students frequent the establishment. Temple senior Chikondi Rose remarked, “A lot of students eat here. A lot of people gather at Chipotle.” The university expressed its condolences in a statement, stating, “The loss of life to gun violence is a profound tragedy, and there are no words that can make sense of it. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and loved ones.”
The university further emphasized the need for emotional support, encouraging students affected by this incident to reach out to Tuttleman Counseling Services. “This is, of course, deeply upsetting and took place adjacent to our campus in a commercial establishment,” the statement continued.
Many students expressed their surprise and concern upon receiving a TU alert about the shooting shortly after returning to campus. Freshman Finn Glenn shared his feelings, saying, “It’s really sad to hear, I mean, a young person like that being found in the bathroom, that’s not something you hear often.” This incident raises ongoing concerns about gun violence and safety in areas frequented by students.
Philadelphia police are actively investigating the case and are searching for three possible suspects, all believed to be boys between the ages of 16 and 17. As of now, no arrests have been made. The community is on edge, awaiting further updates while mourning the loss of a young life.