Victim attacked by large group at SEPTA subway station

CENTER CITY (WPVI) -- Philadelphia police have just released video of a large group of young people attacking another person at a SEPTA subway station in Center City.

It happened at 4:17 p.m. Thursday on the northbound platform at 400 South Broad Street.

Central Detectives Captain Frank Banford says the victim, his friend, and two girls were walking along Broad Street when they attracted the mob's attention.

Something was said to one of the females, words were exchanged, then Banford says, "Our complainant and witness looked over and saw that some of the offenders started to chase them, and they fled. They fled down in the subway northbound platform at Broad and Locust."

Video shows the victim sitting on a bench, trying to blend in with the crowd, when the mob catches up with him. A group of males surrounded him, then quickly attack.

Investigators say the attackers appear to be high school students. Several of their faces can be clearly seen in surveillance video - especially the two that began the assault.

Police are hoping teachers and administrators in the area will watch the video and recognize the suspects.

Captain Banford says, "He could've been seriously injured. Luckily he wasn't. I mean, you have a whole group kicking. It depends upon where they hit him how severe it's going to be."

The 15-year-old victim was treated at Hahnemann University Hospital. He suffered some bumps and bruises but is expected to recover.

To submit a tip via telephone, dial 215.686.TIPS (8477) or text a tip to PPD TIP or 773847.