Philadelphia shooting live updates: Gunfire at Ramadan festival leaves three shot and five arrested

Three individuals were shot and five have been arrested after gunfire broke out at a Ramadan event in West Philadelphia on Wednesday afternoon, prompting police to flock to the scene.

A 15-year-old was shot by a police officer, Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel said, adding that the teen is now in stable condition.

Authorities also said that one of their police patrol wagons accidentally struck a child.

The incident occurred around 2.30pm during an event where hundreds had gathered to celebrate the holiday near Wyalusing Avenue in Philadelphia, Fox29 reports.

The police commissioner said that they have seized four guns from those five arrests.

It’s unclear what prompted the shooting; Mr Bethel said he believed two groups exchanged gunfire.

A witness described the harrowing events to WPVI before lamenting the prevelance of gun violence: “You can’t even have a celebration without having to worry about somebody getting shot.”

Congressman Dwight Evans, who represents West Philadelphia, said in a tweet: “Gun violence is never acceptable, but to see it victimize people who gathered for a Ramadan event or any religious event is especially heartbreaking.”

“We must all continue working for change, because thoughts & prayers are not enough,” he added.