Man Injured in Shooting Near Kamala Harris vs Donald Trump Debate Venue, Suspect Arrested

The Philadelphia Police Department reported  that a 23-year-old man was shot multiple times in the leg shortly before 3:30 p.m. on the westbound platform at the 15th Street station on the Market-Frankford Line in Center City. He was listed in stable condition at nearby Jefferson University Hospital.

Police have arrested a 17-year-old after the shooting, which they say was sparked by a fight in a “small group.” A 23-year-old is also in police custody, a police spokesman said.

“The scene is secured and the suspect has been detained,” the spokesman said. “A weapon has been found.”

About two hours after the incident, SEPTA wrote that “the police actions have been resolved.” Trolleys had previously bypassed the station in both directions.

Police activity has cleared, and trains have resumed regular service along the line. 5th Street Station remains closed due to the Presidential debate.

SEPTA had previously posted on its social media accounts that its service would be affected by the security perimeter around the presidential debate venue. Because of protests also planned near City Hall, city buses were rerouted, according to SEPTA.

The shooting occurred just hours before the presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump and was a reminder that while crime has declined since its peak during the COVID-19 pandemic, it remains a significant election issue.