Police say 11-year-old Harley Belance, who was shot and killed in the Oxford Circle section of the city, was riding a scooter with a friend.
On Saturday, dozens gathered on the scene and balloons were released in his memory.
In the crowd was Suzanne Hatcher, who says Harley was her son’s best friend.
‘We are sedated. We are numb. Too young. He’s a baby. Should never have happened, ”Hatcher said.
Police say Harley and a 14-year-old friend were riding a scooter in block 1500 of McKinley Street just before 7 p.m. on Friday when the shooting took place.
Harley was shot in the neck and killed, officials say.
His friend was shot in the arm and ankle and is in stable condition.
Officials say a man fired shots from block 1400 of McKinley Street.
At the vigil, people called for an end to the rampant violence of weapons.
“When it happens, guess who’s left to clean up the mess? The women in our community. So for every young man out here, I want you to sit back and take a good look at your life,” said Terence Harrell. who is in charge. the @ nogunzone social media account highlighting the toll of gun violence in Philadelphia.
Harley, was described as a lively young man who likes to hang out 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 clear. And to see him like that, to hear this news, it’s insane. My heart is crushed, ”she said.
Police say it is unclear whether Harley and his friend were the intended targets of this shooting.
No arrests have been made so far.
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