Suspect's stepfather arrested as search continues for teens in PSU student's murder
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia police have issued arrest warrants for two teenagers accused in the fatal shooting of Penn State student Billy Schmidt of South Philadelphia.
The U.S. Marshals Service is searching for Azzubair Outen-Fleming and Kaiseem Smith, both 16 years old. Schmidt was killed June 6 near his South Philadelphia home following an incident involving the theft of his cellphone.
Authorities released images of the two suspects as the search continues.
READ MORE | Police name 2 suspects wanted in killing of Penn State student Billy Schmidt
Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Rob Clarke had a direct message for the teens.
"Surrender now. You can turn yourself in today or be found tomorrow. The choice is yours," he said.
Surveillance video captured the moments leading up to the shooting, according to investigators. Authorities allege the suspects stole Schmidt's cellphone on the 1900 block of Durfor Street on June 6. As Schmidt chased after the suspects, one of them turned and shot the Penn State senior in the chest.
Schmidt was pronounced dead a short time later.
Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner said investigators believe Smith was the gunman.
"The information that we have seems to indicate Kaiseem Smith is the shooter in this case," said Krasner.
As authorities continue searching for the two fugitives, U.S. Marshals have already arrested Outen-Fleming's stepfather, 35-year-old Dante Abdul Malik. He faces charges including hindering apprehension and tampering with evidence in connection with the case.
Schmidt's father, William Schmidt, said he is encouraged that progress is being made in the investigation, but said no development can undo the loss of his son.
"There's nothing that's going to bring him back. So, nothing is going to be enough for me," he said.
William Schmidt also said living near the location where his son was killed has become unbearable.
"It was just me and him here, and you know, it's a three-bedroom house. So, I just need to get out, right now," he said.
Authorities said up to $30,000 in reward money is being offered for information related to the case. Anyone with information is asked to contact Philadelphia police or the U.S. Marshals Service.
