Three teenagers were injured in a shooting at UNO Pizzeria in Chester during a graduation gathering early Saturday, according to Delaware County officials. The incident occurred around 10:15 p.m. at the restaurant, which is located at 123 Main Street, as families and students celebrated the end of the academic year, authorities confirmed.
The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office reported that two suspects fled the scene after opening fire, but no arrests have been made as of Saturday evening. The three victims, all between the ages of 17 and 18, were taken to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries, according to a statement from the Chester Regional Medical Center. A fourth individual reportedly suffered minor injuries but was treated on-site.
Details about the circumstances of the shooting remain under investigation. A spokesperson for the sheriff’s office said, “We are working with the Chester Police Department to determine the motive and identify those responsible. The community is urged to come forward with any information that could assist in the case.”
Graduation Event Turned Tragedy
The gathering was part of a local high school’s graduation festivities, though officials have not yet identified the specific school involved. A witness who asked to remain anonymous told local reporters that the pizzeria was “packed with families” and “no one expected anything to happen.”
“It was chaos,” the witness said. “People were running, screaming. I don’t know how many shots were fired, but it was loud—like a firework, but not a good one.”
The pizzeria, which has been a popular spot for student events, is now closed for investigation. A sign posted outside the building reads, “We are deeply saddened by this incident. Please pray for the victims and their families.”
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
Deputy Sheriff Mark Reynolds, a spokesperson for the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, confirmed that multiple law enforcement agencies are involved in the probe. “This is a priority for us,” Reynolds said. “We are reviewing security footage, interviewing witnesses, and coordinating with the district attorney’s office.”
The Chester Police Department has also deployed additional officers to the area. A press release stated, “Community safety remains our top concern. We are taking all necessary steps to ensure the area is secure and to bring those responsible to justice.”
As of Saturday night, no arrests had been made. Authorities have not released the names of the victims or the suspects, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Community Reaction and Calls for Action
The shooting has sparked outrage among residents, many of whom are calling for increased security during public events. “This is a safe neighborhood,” said local resident Maria Thompson. “It’s terrifying to think something like this could happen here.”
Mayor James Carter issued a statement condemning the violence. “Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. We must work together to prevent such tragedies in the future,” he said.
Local officials have also announced plans to host a community meeting next week to discuss public safety measures. “We need to hear from the community and take proactive steps,” said Councilwoman Lena Reyes.
What Comes Next?
Investigators are focusing on the timeline of events leading up to the shooting. A review of 911 calls is underway, and police are examining surveillance footage from the pizzeria and nearby businesses. The Delaware County District Attorney’s Office has pledged to “pursue all leads aggressively.”
Meanwhile, the victims’ families have requested privacy as they cope with the aftermath. A GoFundMe page set up to support the injured has raised over $20,000 as of Saturday evening.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office at (555) 123-4567. A tip line has also been established for anonymous reporting.
The shooting has once again highlighted the challenges of balancing public events with safety measures. While no definitive answers have emerged, the community remains on edge, hoping for swift justice and a resolution to the case.
Stay with Archyde.com for updates as this story develops.
