By Byron Scott and Tim Persinko
NBC Philadelphia:
Chester Police say nine people were shot, two teens are dead after a shooting during a birthday party Friday night.
The gunfire took place at the Minaret Temple on Ward and 4th Street where many teenagers were present, police said.
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Police said nine people were transported to Crozer Chester Medical Center. Eighteen-year-old Robel Laboy died soon afterward and David Johnson, 17, died Saturday morning. Four other victims remained in stable condition, and three had been discharged, according to a spokesperson. A 10th person was treated at Taylor Hospital and was released.
“It’s unreal, this whole thing is unreal for all the families,” Donna Fisher said.
Authorities are holding a 17-year-old in custody. Police say they are searching for more suspects. Several firearms were recovered from inside the hall.
The region has experienced violence in the past. Last summer, a state of emergency was declared by Chester’s mayor, Wendell Butler, after a string of four homicides in eight days.
The city came together Saturday night for a prayer vigil for the victims at the location of the shooting.
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