PHILADELPHIA, PA – Jalen Mickens pled guilty on October 12 for involvement in three shootings in West Philadelphia. The conviction, resulting from collaboration between the District Attorney’s Gun Violence Task Force and law enforcement agencies, addresses incidents from July 4, 2021.
One shooting occurred at a community barbecue in the Cobbs Creek neighborhood, celebrating a local store’s anniversary. Sircarr Johnson, Jr., the event organizer, and Salahaldin Mahmoud, 21, were killed. Another individual was shot, and a fourth was injured by shrapnel. Philadelphia Police Crime Scene Unit recovered 103 cartridge casings.
Mickens admitted to two counts of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, aggravated assault, VUFA No License, and simple assault for the Cobbs Creek shooting.
ADA Jeff Palmer commented on the legal system’s role in preventing further harm to West Philadelphia residents. Councilmember Jamie Gauthier expressed hope for closure and peace for the victims’ families and community, emphasizing the importance of accountability for such acts of violence.