$20G reward in stray-bullet murder

Zykia Sanders had just attended a birthday party at the West Park Apartments in Powelton Saturday when her life was ripped away by a stray bullet intended for someone else, according to police.

Now, authorities are offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of her killers.

According to Homicide Capt. James Clark, Sanders, 22, was with a group of people outside of the apartments, on Busti Street near Holden, after the party let out around 2:18 a.m. when three men in a four-door sedan rolled up on the crowd.

The two passengers in the car opened fire, shooting 15 to 20 rounds, police said. Sanders was not the intended target, but she was the only one injured by the gunfire. She was hit in the back as she ran away from the shots and was taken to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, where she was pronounced dead at 2:30 a.m.

Police said they had "quite a few" witnesses who were helpful, but they believe there are others out there who may have more information.

Clark said police have some names of the person who may have been the intended target, but they have not yet identified that individual or a motive behind the gunfire. There is no indication that the shooting stemmed from anything that went on at the birthday party, police said.

Sanders was pursuing her bachelor's degree in business administration through the University of Phoenix when she became the city's 295th homicide victim this year.

Those with information are urged to call police at 215-686-TIPS (8477) or text a tip to PPD TIP (773847).