Police say about four to five gunshots rang out around 4:30 p.m. following an argument involving several juveniles, according to Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore.
Police news conference on shooting near Dilworth Park ice rink
Three 14-year-olds were shot, police said. One of the victims was shot in the face and is listed as critical. Two others are listed as stable.
The view from our Sky 6 camera over the ice rink showed officers cordoning off an area.
The area of the park is always bustling with people, especially this time of year with the Christmas Village and many shopping huts nearby.
One vendor told Action News she and her coworker were on the ground holding hands for about 10 minutes just waiting for some signal that it was OK to get up again.
"We're all trying to stay down. Trying to hide behind the table. It was so scary. We just didn't know what to do," recalled vendor Lily Lough.
Many were in shock this happened right outside City Hall.
"You've got the Christmas Village here, a lot of tourists here watching and coming to the city. So it's just a shame. Nobody should be put in jeopardy," said Gary Samms, Valley Forge.
One witness reported the fight began on the subway, but police have not confirmed that.
Vanore says officers already in the area were able to respond quickly.
One person around the same age as the victims was detained and questioned by police, he added.
Dilworth Park was closed for the remainder of the evening as police investigated.
Police are calling this an isolated incident.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 215-686-TIPS.