Officials track down fugitive wanted for 2021 murder of 16-year-old outside Southwest Philly 7-Eleven

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — A man wanted for the murder of a 16-year-old at a Southwest Philly 7-Eleven a little over three years ago has been arrested and charged.

On Feb. 18, 2021, around 4 a.m., Kahlief Myrick was inside the store along 70th Street near Grovers Avenue, grabbing breakfast with his cousin when detectives say Donald Whittingham entered the store with a woman and tried to start trouble with the teenager, asking Myrick what he was “looking at.”

Myrick and his cousin then bought their items and, as they left, authorities say Whittingham was waiting outside for them. He then shot Myrick in the chest, killing him.

Following the shooting, police released a video, identifying Whittingham as the shooter, and offering a $20,000 reward for his arrest. He evaded police for three years before being caught in Sacramento, California in June.

He was then arrested and extradited to Philly in July on the murder warrant.

Whittingham faces murder and gun charges. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for September.

Myrick was described as a loving kid who was artistic, played football and would help anyone in need.