Tragically, Laron Williams Jr. lost his life on his 12th birthday when he was caught in the crossfire of stray bullets while crossing the street.
It happened around 2 p.m. as the young boy, who was only a year away from entering his teenage years, made a short journey of 50 feet from his residence in East Germantown to collect lunch prepared by a kind-hearted woman on Crowson Street, known for feeding the local children.
After bidding farewell to her, Laron began his return journey across the 700 block of East Locust Avenue, intending to reach his home.
While Laron was making his way back, an alarming incident unfolded nearby. A man, armed with a rifle, suddenly emerged from a vehicle further up the block and began firing shots down the street.
The sound of gunfire echoed through the air as at least 11 shots were discharged. Unfortunately, two men, aged 47 and 30, were struck multiple times and collapsed, their bodies intertwining on the pavement, according to law enforcement.
Tragically, Laron, affectionately known as “L.J.” to his loved ones, found himself in the path of the bullets. He sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his back, causing him to collapse at the base of the staircase of his lifelong home.
His parents rushed to his side, providing comfort and support until the arrival of the police. With urgency, the officers transported Laron to Einstein Medical Center for immediate medical attention.
Sadly, the injuries Laron sustained proved to be fatal, and he tragically passed away mere moments later. His untimely death marked a heart-wrenching milestone, as he became the youngest victim of gun violence in Philadelphia this year.
The two men, Khalif Chambers, 30, from Germantown, and Riley Darden, 47, from Norristown, also succumbed to their injuries shortly after being transported to Einstein Medical Center. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the incident.
An individual familiar with the investigation, speaking on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the shooting is believed to be linked to an ongoing drug feud.
Deputy Police Commissioner Frank Vanore refrained from speculating on the motive while the investigation is still underway.
However, he emphasized that detectives are thoroughly exploring all possibilities, including the potential involvement of drugs or any preceding incidents that could have sparked the shooting. Vanore mentioned that it is possible that one of the men was specifically targeted. Nevertheless, one fact remains undeniable:
Laron was an innocent victim caught in the crossfire of stray bullets.
Mayor Jim Kenney said he was “devastated” to learn of the shooting in a tweet published on Thursday.
“No one should have their life and potential cut short by violence,” he wrote. “Our communities deserve better. This senseless violence must stop.”
Laron Williams killed by stray bullets on his 12th birthday after a shooting in Philadelphia