A Philadelphia man defended himself with a firearm during an attempted robbery by two teenagers, resulting in injuries for both the intended victim and one of the attackers. Authorities are investigating if the teens are connected to other local crimes.

PHILADELPHIA, PA (2-minute read) — Two teenagers, both 16 years old, were involved in a violent attempted robbery that turned into a shooting on Saturday night in Philadelphia’s Parkside neighborhood. The intended victim, Wayne Hamm, managed to defend himself by firing back, resulting in injuries for himself and one of the attackers.

The incident occurred around 9 p.m. on the 1200 block of 41st Street. Hamm, 26, recounted the ordeal from his hospital bed, expressing disbelief over the attackers’ young age. “It’s the world nowadays. The young kids don’t have no guidance, and the guidance they are getting is not really so good for them,” he said.

Hamm described how a confrontation with the two teens quickly escalated. One of the attackers fired a shot, prompting Hamm to draw his firearm and return fire. Hamm was struck in the back and arm but managed to run away and alert nearby police officers.

One of the teenage attackers sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was hospitalized in critical condition. The second suspect fled but was later apprehended at a hospital.

Philadelphia Police Inspector D.F. Pace noted that the area has seen a rise in criminal activity, and authorities are investigating if the teens are linked to other recent robberies.

Two firearms were recovered at the scene.

Despite the harrowing experience, Hamm is on the mend, though he still grapples with the shock of the encounter. “I am pretty much making a full recovery. Just had to take a few bullet fragments out of me and patch me back up from the wounds,” he shared.

Safety Tip: Always be aware of your surroundings and have a plan for self-defense. If you carry a firearm, ensure you are properly trained and understand the legal implications of its use.