Family identifies teen shot, killed during argument in Upper Darby, Delaware County

UPPER DARBY, Pa. (WPVI) -- Authorities in Delaware County are trying to identify the suspect who shot and killed a 16-year-old boy.

Family members identified the teen who was killed as Khalief Webster.

"When I see the news and clips on social media of young men being gunned down, I sit there and I mourn for their parents," said Webster's mother, Talaya Shaw. "Now, I'm mourning my son."

It happened near Long Lane and Pine Street, not far from Webster's home, just before 3 p.m. on Sunday.

Upper Darby Police released video and pictures of the suspect.

They say the victim and another boy were involved in an argument when one of them pulled a weapon and shot the teen in the back.

The shooting happened outside of Hope Cook's house.

"We heard 'boom,' 'boom,' 'boom,' and then we heard 'help,' 'help,' help,'" she said.

She rushed to the dying teenager's side to comfort him. He was pronounced dead at the hospital.

"It's like a nightmare," said Webster's stepdad, Jeffrey Stamps.

Webster's family told Action News that he loved playing sports in the neighborhood with his siblings and friends. They also said he loved to work, holding several jobs, and couldn't wait to join the workforce full-time.

"He loved to work," Stamps said, recalling, "I was telling about opportunities in trade unions and construction. He was like, so excited. He was looking forward to graduating and just moving forward and just being -- becoming a young man."

"Loving. Always smiling. Our neighbor calls him 'Smiley' because he's always smiling," Shaw said.

The police department says it is working with the Upper Darby School District to provide resources and support for the victim's family, students and staff.

Anyone with information or who recognizes the suspect is asked to call Upper Darby Police at 610-734-7693.