Philadelphia authorities have identified Khadfi Fleming, 19, as a person of interest in two separate incidents: the theft of an off-duty police officer’s vehicle and an exchange of gunfire that followed. Fleming is also wanted in connection with the June 6 murder of Billy Schmidt, 22, a Penn State University student.
Police report that an off-duty officer’s green Dodge Charger was stolen early Monday near the Eastwick neighborhood, leading to a confrontation where gunfire was exchanged. The suspects fled in a stolen red Lexus, which was later recovered. Authorities also recovered the officer’s Charger, noting damage to the steering column and multiple 9mm shell casings at the scene.
Fleming, who has a reported criminal history including firearms possession, resisting arrest, and stolen vehicle charges, was already wanted for his alleged involvement in Schmidt’s killing. Schmidt, a journalism student at Penn State World Campus, was shot during an attempted robbery in South Philadelphia at approximately 1:30 a.m. on June 6. Surveillance footage appears to show Schmidt confronting the suspects before a gunshot was heard.
U.S. Marshals have issued a cash reward for information leading to Fleming’s arrest, emphasizing his status as an immediate threat. Authorities have not charged Fleming in connection with the officer’s incident but continue to investigate his role in both cases. Two additional suspects, including Fleming’s 16-year-old brother, have been taken into custody in separate incidents.
Investigators allege that Fleming was part of a group that targeted Schmidt during a robbery attempt. Schmidt, who was returning home after watching the NBA Finals with friends, was pronounced dead at a hospital within minutes of the shooting. His graduation from Penn State was scheduled for December.
Philadelphia police have not provided further details on the suspects’ identities or motives beyond the ongoing investigation.