PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Eight people were shot early Saturday morning after a fight outside a Washington Avenue lounge escalated into gunfire, according to Philadelphia police.
Officers from the 3rd District responded to a call about a person with a weapon at approximately 3:53 a.m. Upon arrival, police discovered evidence of gunfire near the exterior balcony entrance and followed a blood trail leading inside the locked building. With support from the fire department, officers forced entry to ensure no additional victims were inside. None were found.
Four victims were transported by police to one hospital, while four others arrived by private vehicle at three different medical centers. All were reported to be in stable condition.
Initial investigation revealed the violence began with an argument outside the establishment that escalated into a physical fight involving knives. Gunfire broke out on the balcony as security staff attempted to intervene. One security guard acknowledged firing a weapon during the incident.
“This remains an active and ongoing investigation,” police said. A motive appears tied to the initial argument that turned violent.
City officials responded with emergency support measures. “In response to the mass shooting incident in South Philadelphia early this morning, the Office of Public Safety immediately deployed our RAPID Response protocol and is still actively engaged through several divisions today,” said Chief Public Safety Director Adam Geer.
The lounge’s operating license was revoked by the Department of Licenses and Inspections, and outreach teams from multiple city agencies have been activated, including victim services, community crisis counselors, and automated public alerts through the city’s 211 Anti-Violence Hotline.
