UPDATED at 12:43 p.m.
PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — FBI agents raided two buildings in West Philadelphia Wednesday morning in connection with a shooting investigation in Virginia, federal authorities confirmed.
The buildings, both located near 61st and Market Streets, are associated with the “Wheels of Soul” motorcycle club.
The Wheels of Soul, founded in 1967, is a predominantly Black motorcycle riders group that has several chapter groups throughout the country. One of the doors of the building is painted black with white lettering that reads, “DEATH TO THE KKK.”
According to Virginia's Prince William County Police Department, the raids were part of a large-scale, multi-state operation executing 14 search warrants connected to a shooting at the Babylon Cafe in Woodbridge, Virginia, on April 13. Investigators said the incident is connected to the Wheels of Soul.
Prince William County police said a 42-year-old was ‘forcibly removed’ from the bar and allegedly assaulted by members of the group. That’s when the victim’s 41-year-old friend intervened, prompting an exchange of gunfire. At least 80 rounds were fired, which also struck nearby buildings and vehicles.
The 41-year-old sustained a gunshot wound to the arm, while the 42-year-old was injured in the fight. Both injuries were non-life-threatening.
Authorities focused their efforts on several Virginia locations as well.
In total, they had warrants for 19 people.
Officials have not yet released the names of those involved or specified the charges they face.