Philadelphia authorities have charged six teenagers in connection with a string of unprovoked attacks that occurred within the span of an hour in various locations around the city. The incidents, which took place on November 19, left several victims injured.
The first attack was reported around 3 p.m. when a homeless man was punched near the intersection of 15th and Chestnut streets. Shortly after, a 14-year-old girl punched a 24-year-old woman from behind near 17th and Chestnut streets. The group of teenagers then proceeded to assault the woman while she was on the ground, resulting in her sustaining a concussion.
According to Philadelphia Police Inspector Raymond Evers, the 14-year-old girl appeared to be the leader of the group, instructing the others on what to do during the attacks. The teenagers then targeted a 31-year-old man on the 200 block of North 19th Street and a 40-year-old woman near the Target on 20th and Callowhill streets.
Following the release of surveillance footage of the suspects, the 14-year-old girl turned herself in with her parents. The remaining five teenagers also surrendered to authorities, accompanied by their parents.
Evers commended the parents for taking swift action in bringing their children to the police station. The teenagers are facing multiple charges, including aggravated assault, simple assault, and reckless endangerment.
During a press conference, Evers emphasized that the attacks were unprovoked and stated that investigators are still working to determine the motive behind the incidents. He noted that none of the teenagers had prior arrest records, adding to the mystery of what prompted their violent behavior.
