In a devastating incident, a 6-year-old boy lost his life after being shot in the head by a 9-year-old child in Jacksonville, Florida. Authorities reported that the older child somehow gained access to a loaded firearm and fired a single shot, resulting in the horrifying outcome. The accidental shooting occurred on Monday afternoon, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office received a distress call around 3 p.m. on Monday, alerting them to a person shot in the 5500 block of Shady Pine Street South. Upon arrival, deputies discovered two children under the supervision of an adult at the residence. Assistant Chief J.D. Stronko provided details during a press briefing, revealing that one of the juveniles had managed to obtain the firearm and discharged it, striking the 6-year-old victim.
The young victim was immediately rushed to the University of Florida Shands Hospital. However, he tragically succumbed to the gunshot wound to the head. It remains unclear whether the firearm was secured and locked away within the house. The adult present during the incident was taken to a local police station for questioning, though their identity has not been disclosed.
Assistant Chief Stronko emphasized that there is no indication of criminal violence associated with the incident, and there are no outstanding suspects. The exact relationship between the children and the adult remains undisclosed due to the state’s Marsy’s Law. As the investigation is still in its early stages, details regarding the ownership and location of the gun are yet to be determined. The adult present at the time is currently being questioned, but no charges have been filed so far.