Alaysia Smith dies in fatal North Philadelphia shooting
Alaysia Smith dies in fatal North Philadelphia shooting
Fatal North Philadelphia shooting death of Alaysia Smith – Obituary
Thirteen-year-old Alaysia Smith was tragically shot and killed inside a North Philadelphia home on Wednesday night. The shooting took place around 7:37 p.m. in the second-floor hallway of a residence on the 2800 block of North Bailey Street.
Police were called to the scene and found Smith with a gunshot wound to her chest. She was rushed to a nearby hospital, but despite efforts to save her, she was pronounced dead.
Alaysia’s mother, Ayla Bruce, identified her daughter and shared her heartbreak, overwhelmed with grief as family members comforted her during this unimaginable time. “She was just loved by everybody,” Bruce said, remembering the special qualities of her daughter.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the shooting, but so far, no weapons or ballistic evidence have been recovered. Police believe Smith was at the house with other relatives, visiting friends when the incident occurred. Bruce noted that Smith had friends in the area, making her presence at the home not unusual. “We’re from this neighborhood,” she explained. “So she plays all around this neighborhood, but that is one of the streets she plays on.”
The community is mourning the loss of Smith, who was described as a respectful and kind young girl. Elizabeth Bishop, a neighbor, was in tears upon hearing the news, saying, “She was a young, beautiful young lady. She had respect for everybody on the block.”
Chief Inspector Scott Small of the Philadelphia Police noted that at least two teenage boys who live at the residence were seen running away after the shooting. “It is a tragedy whether or not this was an accident or foul play,” said Small. “It’s a tragedy all around, but detectives right now are working on several angles.”
Smith was a vibrant eighth-grade student at Wissahickon Charter School’s Fernhill Campus. She was known for her love of cheerleading, football games, and her commitment to her studies. “She was an honor roll student. She loved to dance. She loved TikTok,” her mother said.
Wissahickon Charter School released a statement expressing their sorrow: “Wissahickon Charter School is heartbroken to confirm that Alaysia Smith, the victim of the tragic violence in North Philadelphia yesterday, was an 8th-grade student at our Fernhill campus. Alaysia attended our school since kindergarten and made an impression on everyone she met. She was a beautiful, vibrant person who we had the privilege to watch grow over many years. She will be terribly missed by our school community. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the family and with all who knew and loved this child. We are committed to supporting our students, staff, and families during this incredibly difficult time through ongoing grief counseling and social emotional support. We are grateful for the support we have received from the local community.”
No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing. Police are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing those connected to the property to gather more information.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police at 215-686-TIPS.
Alaysia Smith dies in fatal North Philadelphia shooting Fatal North Philadelphia shooting death of Alaysia Smith – Obituary Thirteen-year-old Alaysia Smith was tragically shot and killed inside a North Philadelphia home on Wednesday night. The shooting took place around 7:37 p.m. in the second-floor hallway of a residence on the 2800 block of North Bailey…
Alaysia Smith dies in fatal North Philadelphia shooting Fatal North Philadelphia shooting death of Alaysia Smith – Obituary Thirteen-year-old Alaysia Smith was tragically shot and killed inside a North Philadelphia home on Wednesday night. The shooting took place around 7:37 p.m. in the second-floor hallway of a residence on the 2800 block of North Bailey…