Pizza Delivery Driver, 28, Shot and Killed After Dropping Off Order at Vacant Apartment
A 28-year-old pizza delivery driver was shot and killed in North Philadelphia early Friday morning after being lured to a vacant apartment by someone who placed a fake order — then followed him and opened fire.
The victim has been identified as Anshul Kuncha, an Indian national from Telangana. He worked for Pete's Pizza, a shop on the 2000 block of Ridge Avenue. Kuncha was pronounced dead at Temple University Hospital at approximately 12:45 a.m., roughly 15 minutes after officers arrived at the scene.
What Happened
Someone placed an order to a vacant unit at the Raymond Rosen Homes, a public housing complex on the 2300 block of Edgley Street in the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood. Kuncha delivered the pizzas and was shot outside the building after completing the drop-off.
Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small described what officers found when they arrived. "He was lying on the ground unresponsive, bleeding heavily with a gunshot wound to his head," Small said.
Three spent shell casings were recovered just inches from where Kuncha was found. "Which is an indication that the shooter or shooters were standing very, very close to the victim," Small said.
Inside the vacant apartment, officers found three pizza boxes and a bag — all untouched. Kuncha's delivery vehicle was located nearby with a pizza warmer still inside. It was not immediately clear whether he had been robbed.
Surveillance Footage and Investigative Leads
Philadelphia Housing Authority cameras captured portions of the incident. The footage shows Kuncha walking toward the property carrying the order while two people wearing dark clothing follow close behind. One of the individuals appeared to be carrying a dark backpack. The shooting itself was not captured on camera.
Investigators said they have at least one significant lead: the phone number used to place the order. "We do have the phone number that made that pizza delivery," Small said. Police are also reviewing additional surveillance footage from the area and seeking any witnesses who may have information.
A $20,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Philadelphia Police Department's Homicide Unit at 215-686-3334 or the tip line at 215-686-TIPS. Callers may remain anonymous.
A Dangerous Pattern
Kuncha is the second Pete's Pizza delivery driver to be killed in recent years. In 2024, a 29-year-old man was shot and killed in front of the same store.
The broader context adds weight to the tragedy. According to Philadelphia police statistics, there had been 58 reported homicides in the city as of June 5, 2026 — a figure that is down more than 38% from the same point in 2025. That downward trend offers little comfort in a case where a working man was deliberately lured to his death to deliver a pizza to an empty apartment.
The Consulate General of India in New York issued a statement following Kuncha's death. "We are deeply saddened by the untimely demise of Mr. Anshul Kuncha, an Indian national in Philadelphia. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time. The Consulate is in touch with Anshul's family and is extending all possible assistance."
No arrests had been made as of Monday. The investigation is ongoing.
Curious for more stories that keep you informed and entertained? From the latest headlines to everyday insights, YourLifeBuzz has more to explore. Dive into what’s next.