Teen Fatally Shot in Bathroom of North Philadelphia Chipotle
Teen Killed in Restaurant Shooting Near Temple University
A 16-year-old boy, identified by police as Khyon Smith-Tate of Philadelphia, was shot and killed inside the bathroom of a Chipotle restaurant near Temple University's campus in North Philadelphia on Monday, January 12, 2026, just after 5 p.m.
The shooting occurred inside the Chipotle located at North 12th Street and Montgomery Avenue. Police said the incident took place during the dinner rush while the restaurant was busy with customers and employees.
Victim Found in Bathroom and Pronounced Dead
When officers arrived at the scene, they found Khyon inside the restaurant's bathroom with a gunshot wound to the chest. Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small stated that one spent shell casing was also found in the bathroom.
Medics pronounced Khyon dead at the scene at approximately 5:24 p.m., according to police. Officials said Khyon's last known address was about eight blocks from the location of the shooting.
Sequence of Events Inside the Chipotle
According to police, Khyon was inside the Chipotle with at least two other people before the shooting. Chief Inspector Small said Khyon requested the key to the bathroom and was then seen on surveillance video entering the bathroom with one other person.
Moments later, employees discovered Khyon suffering from a gunshot wound in the bathroom. Police have not identified a motive for the shooting as of Monday night.
Search for Suspects and Person of Interest
The Philadelphia Police Department's Homicide Unit is seeking information regarding several possible suspects. Police released descriptions of three suspects, each described as a boy approximately 16 to 17 years old. Two of the described suspects have dreadlocks, and all three were last seen wearing black coats along with various hooded sweatshirts, pants, sneakers, and backpacks of differing colors.
Police reported that a person of interest was taken into custody nearby. Officials stated it was not clear whether this individual was being considered a suspect or a witness. The investigation remains active.
Reward and Public Appeal for Information
Authorities are asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Philadelphia Police Department's tip line at 215-686-TIPS (8477). A $20,000 reward is being offered for information that leads to an arrest and conviction in the case.
Collaborative Law Enforcement and Campus Response
The Temple University Police Department is working with the Philadelphia Police Department in the ongoing investigation, according to a university spokesperson. Students at Temple University were warned to avoid the area near the shooting because of police activity.
Victim Identified as Charter School Student
Officials stated that Khyon was a student at Imhotep Institute Charter High School. Representatives from the school expressed that they were mourning his death and acknowledged support received from various city government offices and officials.
District Attorney and Support Services
Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner said the District Attorney's Office is working with the Philadelphia Police Department on the investigation through the Homicide & Non-Fatal Shooting Unit. The District Attorney's Office reported that several of its units, including the C.A.R.E.S. Unit and Community Engagement Unit, were present to support family members and others affected.
The District Attorney's Office stated that Krasner, Councilmember Cindy Bass, trauma-care professionals, and victim advocates visited Imhotep Institute Charter High School the morning after the shooting. They led multiple grief and trauma healing circles for students, teachers, and staff.
Restaurant Closure and Employee Support
Chipotle stated that the restaurant on the 1100 block of Montgomery Avenue will remain closed while the company cooperates with the Philadelphia Police Department's investigation. The company said it is offering the services of a professional counselor to all employees at the affected restaurant.