At a Glance
- 16-year-old Khyon Smith-Tate was shot and killed inside a Chipotle bathroom near Temple University at 5 p.m. Monday
- Three teens, all 16-17 years old, are being sought as suspects
- A $20,000 reward is offered for tips leading to arrest and conviction
- Why it matters: The homicide happened on the first day of Temple’s spring semester, rattling the campus and nearby community
A teenage boy died after being shot in the chest inside the bathroom of a Chipotle restaurant on Temple University’s campus in North Philadelphia on Monday evening, according to police.
The Shooting
The incident occurred just after 5 p.m. on January 12, 2026, inside the Chipotle at North 12th Street and Montgomery Avenue. Officers arrived to find 16-year-old Khyon Smith-Tate of Philadelphia inside the restroom with a single gunshot wound to the chest and one spent shell casing nearby, Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small told News Of Philadelphia.
Medics pronounced Khyon dead at the scene at 5:24 p.m.
Surveillance footage shows Khyon entering the restaurant with at least two other people. He asked for the bathroom key, then went inside with one other person. Moments later, employees discovered him shot.
The restaurant was packed with customers and staff during the dinner rush. Detectives are interviewing everyone who was present.
Suspects and Reward
Police have released descriptions of three persons of interest, all boys aged 16 to 17:
- Suspect 1: Dreadlocks, black coat, pink hooded sweatshirt, black sweatpants, black sneakers, red backpack
- Suspect 2: Black coat, black jeans, black sneakers, black backpack
- Suspect 3: Dreadlocks, black coat, blue hooded sweatshirt, black pants, black sneakers, dark-colored backpack
A person of interest was detained nearby, but investigators have not said whether that individual is considered a suspect or a witness.
Authorities are offering a $20,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and conviction. Tipsters can call 215-686-TIPS (8477).
Community Response
Temple University Police are assisting Philadelphia police. Students received alerts to avoid the area because of the heavy police presence.
Monday was the first day of Temple’s spring semester.
Khyon’s last known address is eight blocks from the crime scene.
Statements
Chipotle provided News Of Philadelphia with the following statement:
> “We are heartbroken by the tragic incident that occurred at our restaurant on the 1100 block of Montgomery Avenue in Philadelphia and we hope the individuals responsible are apprehended and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The safety of our employees and guests is our top priority. We are cooperating fully with the Philadelphia Police Department, and the restaurant will remain closed while we assist with their investigation. We are offering the services of a professional counselor to all our employees at the restaurant. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Philadelphia Police Department at 215-686-TIPS.”
Imhotep Institute Charter High School, where Khyon was a student, posted:
> “It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of our young prince, Khyon Smith-Tate. Khyon was caring, energetic, filled with school pride and comical. He was filled with light and love. We will always remember his smile. As one can imagine, we are struggling today. Our collective hearts are hurting. But this community is resilient. Our love and our African-centered values will lead us through this tragedy.”
District Attorney Larry Krasner added:
> “The trauma and grief our young people experience as a result of shootings is unacceptable. We will not accept this as normal for our kids and babies. The DAO and our community and government partners will continue to do everything we can to prioritize public safety and healing in Philadelphia.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Homicide Unit has not released a motive. Detectives urge anyone with video, photos, or tips to come forward.
The restaurant will stay closed until police complete their on-scene work.
This is a developing story. News Of Philadelphia will provide updates as they become available.
