William "Billy" Schmidt had just watched the NBA Finals game between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs with friends at a South Philadelphia bar when he began walking home in the early morning hours, authorities say. The 22-year-old was steps from his family's residence when two individuals confronted him during an apparent robbery and shot him in the chest, according to the Philadelphia Police Department.
Background
Schmidt was watching the NBA Finals game at a local bar with friends before the shooting occurred around 1:30 a.m. Saturday in the area of the 1900 block of Durfor Street in South Philadelphia, his family told WPVI. Surveillance footage reviewed by the local outlet showed Schmidt walking home when the suspects spotted him near his residence.
According to authorities, one suspect threw Schmidt's cellphone before another individual ran around a corner with Schmidt in pursuit. The shorter suspect then turned around and fired a single shot into Schmidt's chest before both men fled the scene, police said.
"I'm shocked he chased them after they took his phone," Bill Schmidt, the victim's father, told WPVI. "From what we're told, another person came out and shot him."
The Investigation
Philadelphia police officers arrived to find Schmidt suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators reviewed surveillance footage that captured the moments leading up to and following the shooting. The footage showed both suspects discarding clothing as they fled, including one distinctive "custom-designed" gray hooded sweatshirt featuring skulls and crossbones, authorities said. Subsequent surveillance footage later depicted the same individuals wearing white T-shirts.
Police describe both suspects as Black males. One is approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall, while the other is described as being at least a few inches shorter. The shooter was identified by investigators as the shorter suspect and allegedly fired the weapon using his left hand.
The Philadelphia Police Department's homicide unit is actively investigating the killing. Authorities have not yet announced any arrests in connection with Schmidt's death.
Key Takeaways
- William "Billy" Schmidt, 22, was shot and killed while walking home from a bar where he had been watching the NBA Finals game between the Knicks and Spurs
- The shooting occurred around 1:30 a.m. Saturday in South Philadelphia near the 1900 block of Durfor Street
- Police believe the killing occurred during an apparent robbery; Schmidt's phone was stolen before he was shot
- Two suspects are being sought by police — both described as Black males, with one approximately 5'8" and the other shorter
- Investigators identified the shooter as the shorter suspect who allegedly fired using his left hand
- The Philadelphia Police Department is offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction
What's Next
The Philadelphia Police Department's homicide unit continues to investigate Schmidt's killing. Anyone with information about the shooting or the identities of the suspects is urged to contact 911 or the department's homicide unit directly at 215-686-3334.
A funeral service for Schmidt was held according to his obituary, which described him as someone who "embraced life with enthusiasm and a genuine love for the people around him."