South Philadelphia shootout: SEPTA police fire at suspect after woman fatally shot

PHILADELPHIA - A deadly shooting on a South Philadelphia street quickly became a shootout with SEPTA police Tuesday morning.

Two SEPTA officers were patrolling in the area of Broad and Ellsworth Streets in a vehicle when they heard a number of gun shots ring out, according to Acting Chief Chuck Lawson.

Police said a 20-year-old woman was struck by gunfire and later died at a local hospital. The victim was later identified as Sahmyra Garcia.

Lawson said, a short time later, the SEPTA officers saw a man running away from the scene into a vehicle. The officers followed that vehicle and came upon a crash site a few blocks away at 11th and Ellsworth streets, according to Lawson.

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The 41-year-old male suspect was shot by a 27-year veteran of the department, according to Lawson. Authorities said the officer discharged his weapon three times. The suspect suffered two gunshot wounds to the shoulder and leg, and was later placed in stable condition at a local hospital.

Police said he is in custody, and a weapon has been recovered. The Philadelphia District Attorney's Office says the motive for the shooting is believed to have been domestic in nature. 

FOX 29 is learning the 20-year-old woman worked at the Target on Broad Street. A company spokesperson shared this statement:

We are deeply saddened by the death of one of our team members. We extend our sincere sympathies to her co-workers, family and friends, and to all those touched by this tragedy. We’re providing support to her colleagues at our Broad Street store in Philadelphia, including access to an onsite counselor. At this time, we’ll refer any additional questions to the Philadelphia Police Department.

The SEPTA officers involved were not injured, and will remain on administrative duty as Philly Police investigate the officer involved shooting.