Wilkes-Barre Shooting Leads to Jail Time for Injured Man

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Tashmeak Harp, an 18-year-old Wilkes-Barre resident, was sentenced to 1-2 years in jail for his involvement in a shooting that occurred at a local clothing store last September. Harp had previously pleaded guilty to attempted aggravated assault and carrying a concealed handgun without a license charges related to the incident.

Why it matters

Gun violence and retaliatory shootings remain an ongoing concern in Wilkes-Barre, with this case highlighting the need for continued efforts to address the root causes and prevent such incidents from occurring in the community.

The details

According to prosecutors, Harp plotted with 33-year-old Tyquan J. 'Whoopty' Smith to shoot up the Elements Drip Shop after an exchange of words with two other men who were shopping for sneakers. However, the intended target drew a gun first and started shooting, grazing Harp with a bullet. The shooting damaged store windows, a wall, and a parked car across the street.

• The shooting incident occurred on the afternoon of September 13, 2025.
• Harp was sentenced on Monday, March 31, 2026.

What’s next

Tyquan J. 'Whoopty' Smith is continuing to await trial on charges of attempted aggravated assault, solicitation to commit aggravated assault, conspiracy to commit aggravated assault, attempted reckless endangerment, and conspiracy to commit reckless endangerment. He remains in jail with bail set at $150,000.