Tragedy struck a Philadelphia family on Mother’s Day weekend when a 12-year-old boy was shot and killed while filming a music video. Ethan Parker received a gunshot wound to the head on May 10, 2025, around 12:30 p.m. Emergency responders took him to an area hospital, where staff pronounced him dead on arrival. Now a 17-year-old is facing charges in Parker’s death.
According to WTXF, Parker was reportedly with two older kids in the 1500 block of East Pastorius Street when he was struck by gunfire.
“Based on what we know so far, it appears that the decedent, the 12-year-old, was with two additional teenagers, ages 15 and 17, when they may have been in the process of producing some sort of a music video,” Philadelphia Police Inspector D.F. Pace shared in a news briefing.
“There were some guns present, and one of them went off, shooting the 12-year-old, ultimately killing him,” he added.
The news has shocked the community. Katisha James, shared her sadness with Fox 29.
“In the middle of the day, shooting a video and playing with guns, it should not happen,” she said. “That is very shocking. I’m at a loss for words now.”
Pace said the crime scene consisted of multiple weapons, including firearms, BB guns, and fake guns. Pace said investigators still need to fully analyze video footage from the scene.
“However, there needs to be, legally, warrants secured with respect to accessing that information,” Pace said during the news briefing. “We do believe that those phones or any other recording equipment may provide some very, very valuable information that will help us understand what exactly occurred.”
The 17-year-old is facing charges of third-degree murder, involuntary manslaughter, and related offenses, per Fox 29.
Parker’s mom, Zakia L. Brice, posted about her son’s death on Facebook.
“Mommy loves you baby…: I miss you so much,” she shared alongside a photo of herself with her son.
“Sending my deepest condolences I pray that you find comfort in his sweet memories,” a friend wrote.
“My heart aches for you,” another person shared. “Prayers for God to comfort you and your family Sis.”
Brice responded to the love and prayers with gratitude. “Thank you everyone. Please keep praying for me and my family. We are not ok. I can’t sleep or lay down,” she wrote in reply to a comment.
The investigation is ongoing. Pace said others may face charges in Parker’s death.
