Philadelphia Gun Violence Out Of Control
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Police are working overtime following a rash of gun violence in Philadelphia in the past few days.
The human toll is immense and authorities are once again trying to figure out how to quell the violence.
In the meantime, the family of 19-year-old Shanya Lovett of Grays Ferry is relieved she is alive but their hearts still ache knowing the pain she's in right now.
Shanya's grandmother asked that we don't use her name but explained to Eyewitness News, "The bullet had shattered her jaw. They have to remove her teeth. She'll need reconstructive surgery for that. It's just evil out here now. Just evil."
According to police, Shanya was an innocent bystander hit with a stray bullet in the face when gunshots rang out at 31st and Tasker Streets Wednesday night.
Mayor Michael Nutter said, "Whether there's a beef or argument between people or innocent bystanders, it's just unacceptable."
For shaken families, the recent rash of gun violence in the city is unconscionable.
Since Sunday evening, sources tell Eyewitness News, there have been 26 shootings involving 36 victims. Five of them have died. Six were innocent bystanders including two girls, ages 6 and 2.
"We haven't announced anything yet but i can share with you that we're working very closely with the district attorney," Mayor Nutter said.
As well as state and federal officials, the mayor says, determined to fight for tougher gun laws.
"To look at the issue of illegal weapons, access to weapons, where they are coming from, what's going on with weapons? We have some laws, we don't have enough here in Philadelphia. In some places, it may actually be easier for folks to have access to a weapon than to go to a book store and buy a book, it's just crazy, so we're focused on this issue," Mayor Nutter added.
Thursday afternoon, Mayor Nutter along with other elected officials and community leaders were invited to attend a press conference on Friday in South Philadelphia.
State Rep. Kenyatta Johnson said, "The blatant disregard that these criminals have for the safety of our community, along with the lack of respect for police presence, is unacceptable. But what's more deplorable is a community accepting it and not taking the appropriate action to stop this violence."
In response, Johnson is expected to announce a community plan of action and anti-violence fund.
Reported by Elizabeth Hur, CBS 3
