Police: Man shot dead during drag race in SW Philadelphia

SOUTHWEST PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Police believe the victim is the intended target.

Just before 2 a.m. on Sunday August, 7, a couple of dozen people were gathered along the 6600 block of Essington Avenue in Southwest Philadelphia.

John Apeldorn of the Citizens Crime Commission said, "They evidently have drag races from time to time right near the airport."

Thirty-nine-year-old Robert Ostiguin was allegedly taking part.

"When the one race gets ready to start a ring of gunfire breaks out," Apeldorn said.

Ostiguin is hit and found at a nearby gas station propped on his motorcycle.

"He's got multiple gunshots, head, torso and he's pronounced dead at the scene," Apeldorn said.

Police believe Ostiguin was the intended target.

"The 20 shots that are fired only strike this individual, not all of them, but no other people in that area are hurt," Apeldorn added.

The City of Philadelphia is offering up to $20,000 in reward money for the arrest and conviction of the person responsible.

"So if you can give them the help there's up to $20,000 waiting for you. You can call our Tipline 215-546-TIPS. All calls remain anonymous and come on down and collect the reward when they get convicted, Apeldorn said.

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