A deep sense of grief has enveloped the Williamsport community following a tragic shooting that claimed the life of a 15-year-old boy Friday night, prompting a full-scale homicide investigation by local authorities.

WILLIAMSPORT, LYCOMING COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — A deep sense of grief has enveloped the Williamsport community following a tragic shooting that claimed the life of a 15-year-old boy Friday night, prompting a full-scale homicide investigation by local authorities.

According to the Williamsport Bureau of Police, officers were already in the area responding to reports of gunfire when additional 911 calls came in reporting another shooting victim on the 600 block of First Avenue. When officers arrived, they discovered the teenage boy lying unresponsive in the street, suffering from a gunshot wound to the abdomen.

Emergency medical personnel rushed the teen to a nearby hospital, where doctors worked tirelessly to save his life. Despite their efforts, he later succumbed to his injuries. His name has not yet been released as police continue the process of notifying family members.

The tragic loss of a child has shaken Williamsport to its core, as residents grapple with another act of senseless violence cutting short a young life with so much potential. Police have not yet released information about possible suspects or a motive behind the shooting, but detectives are actively investigating leads, reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses, and speaking with witnesses who may have seen or heard anything unusual in the area Friday evening.

Williamsport Police Chief Justin Snyder expressed his condolences to the victim’s family and emphasized that bringing those responsible to justice is a top priority. “This community should not have to endure the pain of losing another young person to gun violence,” Snyder said. “Our investigators are working around the clock to determine what led to this tragedy and to hold the individuals involved accountable.”

Neighbors described the chaotic scene, with flashing lights and police cars filling the street late into the night. “It’s devastating,” one resident said. “You hear about things like this happening in other places, but when it’s a teenager from your own community, it just breaks your heart.”

This latest shooting adds to growing concerns about youth violence and gun-related crimes in the area. Community leaders and local organizations are urging residents to come together to support the grieving family and to speak up if they have any information that could help the investigation.

The Lycoming County Coroner’s Office is assisting with the case, and an autopsy is expected to be performed in the coming days.

Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Williamsport Bureau of Police at (570) 327-7560 or submit an anonymous tip through Lycoming County Crime Stoppers.

As the investigation continues, the community mourns a life taken far too soon — a young boy whose future was filled with promise, now tragically cut short by violence.