Penn State senior fatally shot near his South Philadelphia home; police seek suspects

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A 22-year-old Penn State senior was shot and killed early Saturday morning, just yards from his family's South Philadelphia home, and police are continuing to search for the suspects.

Billy Schmidt was walking home around 1:30 a.m. Saturday when he was shot on the 1900 block of Durfor Street. His father said Schmidt had been returning from a local bar where he was watching the NBA Finals with friends.

"He was a really good person who cared about everybody and never hurt or bothered a soul, never bothered anyone and for him to get shot like that is a travesty," said Bill Schmidt, the victim's father.

Surveillance video captured by nearby cameras appears to show the moments leading up to the shooting. In one video, a man can be seen throwing a cell phone. Seconds later, another man runs around a corner with Schmidt chasing him. The gunman then turns around and shoots Schmidt in the chest.

Bill Schmidt said he found his son's phone under a car and turned it over to police.

"I'm shocked when they stole his phone that he chased them," He said. "Supposedly when he got to the corner, another came out and he shot him," he said.

Neighbors began creating a memorial at the location where Schmidt was shot, directly across the street from where he lived.

"The neighbors, we come together, it's really important. It's sad we have to come together over a death," said Michael Smith, a nearby resident.

Neighbors have also assisted investigators by providing surveillance footage. One video shows two men walking, with one turning around and appearing to speak with Schmidt. Schmidt then follows the man. Another video shows one person ducking behind parked cars while the other runs away.

"I want to find the two people and make them pay," Bill Schmidt said.

Police have not announced any arrests. While the incident appears to be an attempted robbery, investigators have not released a motive.