A search is ongoing after a Pennsylvania State University student was shot and killed in a likely armed robbery attempt.
Billy Schmidt, 22, was shot near his home in Philadelphia early Saturday morning. Philadelphia Police Department reports indicate Schmidt was discovered with a gunshot wound to his chest.
Emergency responders took Schmidt to a local hospital where he was declared dead shortly before 2 a.m. His father, Bill Schmidt, mentioned his son had been returning from a bar after watching the NBA Finals with friends.
“He was a really good person who cared about everybody,” lamented Bill Schmidt. “I’m shocked when they stole his phone that he chased them.”
Security footage shows Schmidt requesting his phone back before shots rang out, leading to his tragic death. The footage depicts a man discarding a cellphone and another person running before Schmidt is shown being chased and shot.
Schmidt was a senior at Penn State, planning to graduate in December. Despite his achievements, no arrests have been made in connection to his death.
A local neighbor appealed for information: I want justice, I want the kid that shot Billy to be found. If anyone has information or recognizes anything about the kids, please come forward.
In a statement shared by Billy’s sister, Anna Schmidt, on GoFundMe, she described him as a beloved brother and community member. The family has raised over $48,000 since the tragedy.
For further updates, tips can be sent to reporter Adam Sabes at [email protected] or on Twitter @asabes10.