Teens Accused Of Killing Track Star In West Philadelphia: Police

PHILADELPHIA – Two teens haver been arrested for the murder of an aspiring collegiate track athlete in West Philadelphia, according to police.

Police said 16-year-old Taron Small and 15-year-old Byron Vinson have been arrested and charged in connection with the shooting death of 18-year-old Kristian Marche that occurred on the 1800 block of East Pastorius Street on Aug. 13

The pair have been charged with murder, criminal conspiracy, violations of the uniform firearms act, and related offenses in connection with Marche's death, police said.

Marche, an Imhotep Institute Charter High School grad, was bound to join Penn State University's track and field team in the fall before he was gunned down.

"Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Kristian Marche's family, friends and teammates," Sandy Barbour, Penn State Director of Athletics, said of Marche's death. "We are deeply saddened by this tragedy; another young person taken from his loved ones far too early. Our thoughts are with Kristian's family and friends; we will do what we can to support them and our track and field students and staff during this very difficult time."

Pictured above is Small

Images via Philadelphia Police Department