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NORTH PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — A 16-year-old boy was shot and killed inside a Chipotle restaurant near Temple University’s campus on Monday afternoon, a violent incident that unfolded as students and staff returned for the first day of the spring 2026 semester, sending shockwaves through the university community.
Khyon Smith-Tate obituary: Khyon Smith-Tate, a North Philadelphia resident, has died after being fatally shot inside a Chipotle at The View at Montgomery apartment complex, just steps from Temple University’s Student Center. The Philadelphia Police Department reported the shooting occurred at approximately 5:00 p.m. in the restaurant’s restroom.
Police Chief Inspector Scott Small stated that Smith-Tate was found with a gunshot wound to the chest and was pronounced dead at the scene at 5:24 p.m. According to investigators, Smith-Tate and another minor entered the restaurant and requested access to the bathroom, where the shooting is believed to have occurred. Employees discovered the victim moments later. Police recovered one spent shell casing from a semiautomatic weapon inside the restroom.
While the area was crowded and several individuals were briefly detained, authorities have not yet obtained witness statements from anyone reporting they heard a gunshot. A person of interest was taken into custody blocks away, but their involvement remains unclear. As of Tuesday, no arrests have been made, and no motive has been established.
Authorities are seeking information about three possible suspects described as teenagers carrying backpacks. Chief Inspector Small noted the presence of numerous surveillance cameras in the area, which detectives are actively reviewing.
In a joint statement, Temple University President John Fry and Vice President for Public Safety Jennifer Griffin said, “The loss of life to gun violence is a profound tragedy, and there are no words that can make sense of it. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and loved ones.”
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Philadelphia Police Department.