Police MANHUNT Underway – For a 10-Year-Old?!

At a Glance

Philadelphia police are searching for two suspects involved in a series of armed carjackings.
The suspects are a 17-year-old male and a boy who could be as young as 10.
The incidents occurred between Aug. 16 and Aug. 22 in North Philadelphia.
Public advised not to approach suspects; call 911 or submit tips via 215-686-TIPS (8477).

String of Armed Carjackings

Philadelphia authorities are in hot pursuit of two suspects responsible for a string of armed carjackings. Shockingly, one of the suspects is a boy as young as 10 years old. The incidents have sparked concern among community members and prompted a swift response from law enforcement.

The first carjacking took place on August 16 around 10 p.m. on the 1000 block of Girard Avenue, where a man was approached and his vehicle was stolen at gunpoint. More carjackings followed, including an incident on August 18 at 2 a.m. on the 1300 block of W. Cumberland Street. Surveillance footage showed the suspects at Broad Street and Cecil B. Moore Avenue during this incident.

Child and teenager sought after series of armed carjackings across Philadelphia https://t.co/vhVgvsQND7

— Action News on 6abc (@6abc) August 27, 2024

Suspects’ Description and Impact on Community

The suspects include a 17-year-old male with a thin build and standing approximately 5’8″ tall. The younger suspect is described as being 10 to 12 years old, 4’8″ to 5′ tall, with puffy hair. This combination of youth and violence has unsettled North Philadelphia, highlighting a trend that demands immediate and comprehensive intervention.

Involving a child in such violent acts is particularly alarming, signaling the need for addressing underlying societal issues contributing to juvenile criminality. Loud calls for intervention strategies and support systems are becoming more pronounced among concerned residents and city officials alike.

🤦🏽‍♀️ https://t.co/IP2TMrQ5M7

— 💅🏼 (@_OneNaMiLL_) August 26, 2024

Addressing the Crisis

A car crash involving a previously stolen vehicle marked the third incident on August 21 at 5 a.m. on the 1300 block of W. Ontario Street. Just days later, on August 22, around 6 a.m., the pair robbed a 74-year-old woman, pushing her to the ground and stealing her keys and wallet while wielding a semi-automatic handgun. Anyone with information is urged to contact authorities immediately.

The Philadelphia Police Department encourages anyone with information to call 215-686-TIPS (8477). The rise in youth crime must be met with effective strategies and community support to prevent further incidents and provide guidance for at-risk children.