Pottstown student killed in Philly shooting

JaheimLamarre, 17, was known for his ‘infectious smile’

APottstown High School senior was shot and killed in Philadelphia Wednesday night. Jaheim Lamarre, 17, suffered multiple gunshot wounds, according to police. Another 17-year- old, Zahquesz McFadden of Philadelphia, was also killed in the incident, and two other males, ages 17 and 18, were wounded by gunfire. It happened around 8:30 p.m. on the 1800 block of Moore Street in the city’s Point Breeze section, according to 6ABC News. Philadelphia Police ComPOTTSTOWN » missioner Danielle Outlaw said three gunmen walked up on foot and started opening fire. Roughly 23 shell casings were found at the scene, Channel6Action News reported. No arrests have been made, but Outlaw told news outlets there is video footage of the incident and police believe one suspectmay have been wearing all black clothingwith a blackmask. Anyone with any information is asked to call Philadelphia Police at 215- 686TIPS. “Our hearts are grieving for his family and friends,” Pottstown Schools Superintendent Stephen Rodriguez wrote in a social mediamessage to district families. “Jaheim had an infectious smile and was always happy to talk to you,” said Pottstown High School Principal Danielle McCoy. “He had many friends with whom he enjoyed spending time and joking around. Jaheim was involved in the mentoring program, MoldingMen, and could frequently be found after school in meetings and activities sponsored by them,” said McCoy. LaTanya White, the district’s director of student services, said she got to know Jaheimwhen he spent time in the Beech Street learning center. “Jaheim was very outgoing and sociable, and he was respectful and he did his work,” White said. “Hewas lively andhewas very kind,” she said. “He was always helpful.” Jaheim had returned to the high school after making progress at the learning center, said White. “I spoke to his dad, who is still processing this, and he is even more upset because of how well Jaheim was doing,” saidWhite. “He wasmaking goodprogress.” “Many of our students are already aware of this through social media outlets. Counseling services are available for both students and staff as we process this terrible incident together, despite our current virtual format,” Rodriguez wrote. Reaction to Rodriquez’s announcement was swift and sad, with many offering prayers for Lamarre’s family. “This is tragic,” Allyson Beasley-Brown posted beneath the announcement. “Another life taken to soon,” posted Billie Jean Buckland. “Gut-wrenching ... I am so profoundly sorry and sendmy prayers to his family and friends,” posted Dianna Lee-Stitt. Like many U. S. cities, Philadelphia has been plagued by a wave of gun violence this year. The city has recorded 306 homicides as of Sept. 2, the second highest total in the nation, behind only Chicago.

— Danielle McCoy, Pottstown High School principal

YEARBOOK PHOTO Jaheim Lamarre