PHILADELPHIA — Azir Harris, a 24-year-old father and outspoken advocate for gun violence survivors, was tragically killed early Monday morning during a mass shooting at a block party in South Philadelphia, his family confirmed.

Harris, who had been paralyzed in a 2018 shooting at the age of 17, was attending a neighborhood cookout on the 1500 block of South Etting Street.

According to his father, Troy Harris, Azir had gone to enjoy the evening with friends and family, including the mother of his 1-year-old son, who was also injured in the shooting.

The gathering followed a weekend of remembrance for four young men from the community who were previously killed in acts of gun violence.

Community members said the atmosphere was celebratory, with music, food, and conversation—until it turned into chaos.

Shortly before 1 a.m., gunfire erupted. Police said more than 110 rounds were fired along the densely packed street, where dozens had gathered.

Harris, seated in his wheelchair, was struck multiple times in the back. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead shortly after 2:15 a.m. at a nearby hospital.

His wheelchair was left behind at the scene, surrounded by bullet casings and evidence markers—a haunting symbol of a life cut short.

“He was the light of this house,” said Troy Harris, speaking emotionally about his youngest son, the youngest of six children. “The kid fought so hard to stay here. And look … look what happened.”

After being paralyzed in the 2018 shooting, Azir had become a dedicated advocate for survivors of gun violence and a devoted father to his young son, Aspen.

“He was so committed to being a dad,” his father said. “He didn’t let not being able to use his legs stop him from being totally committed. He would do everything—sometimes it would make us nervous. But he was so happy to be a father.”

As the investigation continues, police believe multiple shooters were involved, though no motive has yet been determined.

At least 13 people were injured in the shooting, three fatally.

The ages of the victims range from 15 to 24.

Troy Harris spent Monday making heartbreaking calls to those who had helped support his son’s recovery and journey since 2018.

The shooting marks the second mass shooting in Philadelphia in just days and underscores the growing concern over escalating violence in the city.