Two people were killed and nine others — including three teenagers — were injured when gunmen started firing into a large crowd on Memorial Day at Lemon Hill in East Fairmount Park. Investigators recovered 21 fired cartridge casings and police believe there were multiple shooters.
Monday’s tragedy marks yet another instance of gun violence to rattle the Philadelphia community.
There have been 91 homicides this year, according to police data, a 13% decrease from the same time last year. While homicide rates are falling in Philadelphia, gun violence remains prevalent with 398 shooting victims across 732 shooting incidents since the start of 2025. There have also been more than 5,000 violent crimes reported this year.
The trauma of violence effects thousands of Philadelphians every year.
Victims of gun violence and their loved ones can find support through counseling, peer groups, and victim advocacy services, many of which are offered locally and are free of charge.
The Anti-Violence Partnership of Philadelphia provides intervention, prevention and support services to youth, adults and families who have been victims of violence or have lost a loved one to violence.
AVP is free of charge and does not require proof of insurance or citizenship. For more information, call 215-567-6776 or visit in person at 4946 Parkside Ave. in West Philadelphia Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The 211 helpline aims to provide immediate assistance from internet connectivity to crisis resources. The helpline partnered with the City of Philadelphia “to make life-saving resources that much easier to find.”
According to United Way, 211 Specialists are trained to connect callers with any and all support they may need during a crisis. Call or text 211 to speak with a specialist immediately for free, confidential assistance. A specialist can connect you with resources for conflict resolution, victim support, counseling, youth programs and thousands of other support services.
The City of Philadelphia’s Office of Violence Prevention partnered with the 24/7 operated Community Crisis Intervention Program to aid community members who have experienced or are at high-risk to experience violence.
CCIP team members work with victims to provide support after an act of violence, such as a neighborhood shooting, and aim to reduce the likelihood of another act of violence happening in the future.
In addition to the listed resources, the Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office encourages all gun owners to utilize a gun lock to promote safe firearm containment and prevent gun accidents, misuse, and theft. The Sheriff’s Office provides free gun locks at their office on 100 S. Broad Street between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
If you have information regarding violence of any kind in your neighborhood, submit a tip by calling 215-686-TIPS (8477) or emailing tips@phillypolice.com.
