A 22-year-old Penn State student was killed in South Philadelphia after he chased two suspects who had robbed him of his cell phone. William “Billy” Schmidt, a rising senior studying digital journalism, was sH๏τ in the chest during the confrontation and later died at the hospital.

The incident occurred in the early morning hours of June 6, 2026, just steps from his home in the 1900 block of Durfor Street. Billy had spent the evening watching the NBA Finals at a nearby bar before walking home. According to reports, two hooded individuals confronted him and took his phone. Instead of letting it go, Billy ran after them, pleading for the phone to be returned.

One of the suspects then turned and sH๏τ him. Billy collapsed on the street. Emergency responders rushed him to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, but he did not survive.

His death has left his family, friends, and the broader South Philadelphia community in shock. Billy was remembered as a bright, curious, and hardworking student who was pᴀssionate about storytelling and journalism. Those who knew him described him as someone with a bright future ahead.

In a heartbreaking detail, Billy’s father later discovered the stolen phone under a car near the scene. He turned it over to police so it could be processed for DNA evidence. What began as a simple robbery ended with a young man losing his life over something that could easily be replaced.

Philadelphia police have released surveillance footage of two suspects and are offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Investigators are continuing to review evidence and are asking anyone with information to come forward.

A vigil was held in the neighborhood to honor Billy’s life and mourn his death. Friends, neighbors, and community members gathered to share memories and express their grief. Many voiced frustration over the senseless nature of the crime and concern about ongoing violence in the area.

Billy’s classmates at Penn State are also mourning the loss of a fellow student who had been preparing for a career in digital journalism. His death has left a void in the lives of those who knew him and has sparked difficult conversations about safety and the value of human life.

For his family, the pain is profound. They are now facing a future without the son they loved and the milestones they had been looking forward to celebrating with him. What should have been a normal night ended in unimaginable tragedy.

As the investigation continues, authorities and community members are urging anyone with information to speak up. Billy’s life was taken in a moment of violence that never should have happened. His story is a painful reminder of how quickly a life can be lost and how important it is for communities to come together in the pursuit of justice.