What to Know
- A Philadelphia high school track star was shot and killed while standing in his rear driveway.
- Kristian Marche, 18, died from his injuries the same day he was set to attend Penn State University on a track and field scholarship.
- Police believe Marche was targeted.
Loved ones are mourning a Philadelphia high school track star who died from a gunshot wound the same day he was set to begin his freshman year at Penn State University.
Kristian Marche, 18, was in the rear driveway of his home on the 1800 block of East Pastorius Street in West Oak Lane Monday around 9:30 p.m. when an unidentified gunman opened fire. Marche was struck once in the head and taken to the hospital in extremely critical condition. Marche died from his injuries early Tuesday evening.
No arrests have been made and police have not released a description of any suspects or any possible motive.
“We believe someone knows who was in the driveway with Kristian and we’re asking those who know to be courageous and do the right thing and contact homicide,” Philadelphia Police Lt. Norman Davenport said.
Police also say Marche was targeted.
"We have no reason to believe that this was a random act," Davenport said.
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As police continue to investigate, those who knew Marche are heartbroken over the loss of a talented athlete with big dreams and potential. Marche excelled in both football and track at Imhotep Institute Charter High School.
Marche was so good in fact that he was set to go to Penn State University on a track and field scholarship. Tuesday would have been Marche’s first day at the school.
“It’s a real tragedy that the world won’t get to see him grow and develop as a person,” Bernard Miller, Marche’s teacher, told NBC10. “Really an outstanding young man. Just full of life.”
In addition to being a great athlete, Marche was described as a friendly and funny teen who got along with everyone.
“This hit us with a heavy heart to lose one of our brothers,” Nick Lincoln, Marche’s high school coach, wrote in a statement. “Kristian always had a smile on his face and our team will dedicate this season to him.”
Imhotep Institute Charter High School's football team is dedicating their upcoming season to Marche. A scholarship in Marche's honor is also being planned.
If you have any information on the shooting, please call Philadelphia Police.
