Penn State student fatally shot near South Philadelphia home

A Penn State student was shot and killed early Saturday morning near his home in South Philadelphia. 

William Schmidt, 22, was shot in the area of the 1900 block of Durfor Street just after 1:30 a.m. on Saturday, according to police. 

Police said officers found Schmidt, who lived about a block away on South 20th Street, lying on the ground suffering from a gunshot wound to his chest. He was taken to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead a short time later, police said.

Philadelphia Police Captain Christopher Bradshaw said early Saturday morning that the potential shooter was last seen running east on Durfor Street from the scene.

In a statement, Penn State said Schmidt was a fourth-semester student studying digital journalism and media at Penn State World Campus, which is the school's online campus. The university said it reached out to Schmidt's family to offer support.

"We are heartbroken over the tragic death of William Schmidt, and we share our deepest condolences with his family and friends," the school said in a statement in part.

Penn State said counseling will be available for students in need. 

Schmidt's family has set up an online fundraiser to cover the funeral expenses. 

The Philadelphia Police Department's Homicide Unit is investigating the killing and asks anyone with information to call 215-686-3334 or submit an anonymous tip by calling or texting 215-686-TIPS (8477).