A tragic incident unfolded on Mother’s Day weekend in Philadelphia when 12-year-old Ethan Parker was fatally shot while filming a music video. Parker was struck by a gunshot wound to the head on May 10, 2025, around 12:30 p.m. Emergency responders rushed him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. A 17-year-old is now facing charges in connection with Parker’s death.
According to WTXF, Parker was reportedly with two older teens, ages 15 and 17, in the 1500 block of East Pastorius Street when the gunfire erupted. Philadelphia Police Inspector D.F. Pace provided details during a news briefing, saying, “Based on what we know so far, it appears that the decedent, the 12-year-old, was with two additional teenagers, ages 15 and 17, when they may have been in the process of producing some sort of a music video.”
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Pace continued, revealing that multiple weapons were involved in the incident. “There were some guns present, and one of them went off, shooting the 12-year-old, ultimately killing him,” he added. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community. Katisha James, a resident, expressed her disbelief to Fox 29.
“In the middle of the day, shooting a video and playing with guns, it should not happen,” she said. “That is very shocking. I’m at a loss for words now.” At the crime scene, authorities discovered a range of weapons, including firearms, BB guns, and fake guns.
Pace explained that investigators were still working to analyze video footage from the scene, though they needed to secure warrants to access the material. “We do believe that those phones or any other recording equipment may provide some very, very valuable information that will help us understand what exactly occurred,” Pace noted.
As the investigation continues, the 17-year-old involved in the incident is facing charges of third-degree murder, involuntary manslaughter, and related offenses, according to Fox 29. Parker’s mother, Zakia L. Brice, expressed her grief on social media, sharing a photo of herself with her late son.
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“Mommy loves you, baby… I miss you so much,” she wrote. Friends and loved ones offered condolences in the comments, with one friend writing, “Sending my deepest condolences, I pray that you find comfort in his sweet memories.” Another shared, “My heart aches for you. Prayers for God to comfort you and your family, Sis.”
Brice responded with heartfelt gratitude, thanking everyone for their prayers and support. “Thank you, everyone. Please keep praying for me and my family. We are not ok. I can’t sleep or lie down,” she replied. The investigation remains ongoing, with Pace stating that others may also face charges in connection with the shooting.
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