Philadelphia Police released surveillance video Wednesday showing two suspects wanted in the fatal shooting of Penn State student William "Billy" Schmidt [2].
The release of the footage marks a critical step in identifying the individuals responsible for a violent crime that occurred within sight of the victim's own home. The case has drawn attention due to the sudden nature of the attack and the victim's ties to a prominent university.
Schmidt was killed during an armed robbery that took place at about 1:30 a.m. on Saturday [1]. The incident occurred in South Philadelphia, just a few yards from the family home of the victim [1]. Investigators said the shooting happened shortly after Schmidt had attended an NBA Finals watch party [1].
The suspects fled the scene following the robbery and are now wanted for murder [1]. The Philadelphia Police Department used the Wednesday release to bring the surveillance footage to the public to aid in the search for the two unidentified individuals [2].
"I hope they find them," a Philadelphia Police Department spokesperson said [1].
Police have not yet released the names of the suspects or provided specific descriptions beyond the video footage. The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the motive behind the robbery, and the identity of the shooters [1], [2].
“"I hope they find them."”
The use of public surveillance footage indicates that police are relying on community tips to identify suspects who may not have a prior extensive criminal record in the area. Because the crime occurred in a residential neighborhood near the victim's home following a high-profile sporting event, investigators are likely reviewing additional private security cameras to track the suspects' movements before and after the 1:30 a.m. shooting.
