Man dead, 2 critical after West Kensington shooting

WEST KENSINGTON (WPVI) -- A man is dead and two others are critical after what police are calling a deadly shootout unfolded in the city's West Kensington section.

It happened just before 6 p.m. Sunday in the 100 block of West Wishart Street.

"It's like a lot of shots. My brother was like yo, yo get inside," said neighbor Steven Cuevas.

Police said a 47-year-old man was shot once in the groin and once in the buttocks. He was pronounced dead on arrival at Temple University Hospital.

A 17-year-old man was shot in the face and a John Doe was shot in the back of the head, police said.

Both victims are listed in critical condition at Temple University Hospital.

"Based on ballistic evidence, we know 20 shots were fired from two separate caliber weapons," said Chief Inspector Scott Small. "Many of those calibers appear to be from an assault rifle."

Police said John Doe was wearing a bullet-proof vest and armed with a 9mm handgun.

"Once we determine who he is, did he have a permit to carry this weapon, what type of work was he involved in for him to not only be carrying a gun, which is a big concern to us, but why would this individual be wearing a ballistics vest?" said Small.

Detectives are working to find out the relationship of the three victims including if they were the intended target or simply caught in the crossfire in a neighborhood police said is known for illegal drug sales.

Police said the suspect was wearing a gray hoodie and hat and was seen running westbound on Allegheny at Front Street.

Anyone with information is asked to call 911.