8 arrested after investigation into 43 gang-related shootings in Philly

Eight people are facing criminal charges in a year-long investigation into violence in South Philadelphia.

Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro said the eight suspects representing two violent gangs were arrested Wednesday by a joint task force of more than 100 officers who fanned out through South Philadelphia, especially in the Grays Ferry neighborhood.

“The violence between these groups accounted for 43 shooting incidents,” Shapiro said. “Thirty-five people were shot and injured — including a 12-year-old boy and a 59-year-old woman.”

The charges include murder, attempted murder, conspiracy, aggravated assault and firearms offenses.

The gangs were tied to their neighborhood blocks, identified as 27th Street and 31st Street.  Officials expect the arrests will disrupt drug trafficking and other related criminal activity in the area.

Police Commissioner Richard Ross said police are working to make sure new leaders don’t take over quickly for the gang bosses who were taken into custody.

“Somebody’s going to try to replace them. When that happens, that kicks off another level of violence that you hadn’t seen before,” said Ross.