Philadelphia police have issued arrest warrants for two 16-year-old suspects in the fatal shooting of Penn State student Billy Schmidt, who was killed on June 6 while attempting to retrieve his stolen phone.
Schmidt, 22, was walking home from an NBA Finals watch party when he was attacked around 1:30 a.m. Surveillance video captured the incident, showing Schmidt demanding his phone back before a gunshot is heard. The video then shows Schmidt chasing after one of the individuals before being shot in the chest. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after.
The U.S. Marshals Service has joined the search for the two minors, who are not yet in custody. A reward of $5,000 is being offered for information leading to their arrest.
Police described the shooter as a Black male between 5’3″ and 5’5″, wearing dark clothing and a light gray camouflage-colored facemask. The second suspect was described as 5’8″ with braids, wearing a light gray hooded sweatshirt with a specific design.
Schmidt was a student at Penn State World Campus, studying journalism, and was on track to graduate in December. The university released a statement expressing their condolences to his family and friends.
Schmidt's sister, Anna Schmidt, spoke emotionally about the loss of her brother, stating, "I miss him so much, and I don't understand how someone can do this." His father, Bill Schmidt, described his son as a good person who never bothered anyone and expressed shock that he would chase after the individuals who stole his phone.
Anyone with information regarding the suspects' whereabouts is urged to contact the Philadelphia Police Department at 215-686-TIPS.