Teen Arrested in Penn State Student’s Murder; Second Suspect Still at Large

Authorities have arrested a 16-year-old suspect from Colorado in connection with the murder of Penn State student Billy Schmidt. Police in Philadelphia confirmed that two boys, also aged 16, will face adult charges related to a robbery and shooting that occurred on June 6. The second suspect, Kaiseem Smith, is still being sought by law enforcement.

In a related development, U.S. Marshals have identified and are looking for 19-year-old Gadfi Fleming, who is a person of interest in a separate violent incident in Philadelphia. This incident involved an off-duty police officer who was reportedly involved in a shootout with alleged car thieves.

This confrontation began early Monday when thieves appeared to target a Dodge Charger that the police officer was in. Following the chase, a gunfight ensued, although, thankfully, no injuries were reported. The suspects escaped, leaving behind a damaged vehicle and multiple shell casings.

Fleming is wanted for robbery connected to Billy Schmidt’s murder, which took place as Schmidt was returning home from an NBA Finals party. Schmidt was tragically shot just around the corner from his South Philadelphia home at approximately 1:30 a.m. on June 6. According to surveillance footage, he was last seen asking for his stolen cellphone just before the fatal shots were fired.

His father described him as a kind and careful individual, someone who caused no trouble. This killing has prompted a thorough search for the suspects involved, including statements that highlighted the unfortunate circumstances surrounding Schmidt’s death.

Within a month of the homicide, authorities managed to arrest Azbaiah Auten-Fleming in Colorado Springs. Reports indicate that he initially attempted to conceal his identity when found. Meanwhile, another teenager named Kaisem Smith handed himself over to the Philadelphia police.

Schmidt was a digital journalism and media student at Penn State, set to graduate in December. As the investigation continues, law enforcement is eager to determine whether there’s any connection between Fleming and the recent surge in violent crime.

Anyone with information about Gadfi Fleming’s whereabouts is encouraged to reach out to the U.S. Marshals Service.