A street argument on Broad Street in Philadelphia escalated into a fatal confrontation on the northbound platform of the Walnut-Locust SEPTA station. The victim was 21-year-old Joseph Lighty. What began as an animated conversation became a physical fight on the platform, during which a gun discharged and Lighty was struck in the leg. He was taken to Jefferson Hospital and pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Authorities said the firearm involved was Lighty’s own illegal ghost gun. SEPTA police arrested 36-year-old Phillip Riddick on the stairs of the station; he was initially charged with absconding for failing to appear in an unrelated court case while further charges in Lighty’s death were being awaited. Preliminary witness information cited by the District Attorney’s Office indicated Lighty had instigated the initial argument.

If anyone saw the altercation on Broad Street or the Walnut-Locust station platform, or has information about what led to the shooting, please come forward.