A shooting incident on the near east side of Indianapolis resulted in the death of a juvenile. The incident occurred before 4 p.m. when Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers were called to respond to a report of a person shot near 3710 E Market Street. Upon arrival, officials discovered a person with injuries consistent with a gunshot wound, who was later pronounced dead at the scene. The victim has been identified as a male between the ages of 11 and 14 years old.
According to IMPD Public Information Officer William Young, the shooting took place in a residence primarily occupied by juveniles. It remains unclear if any adults were present at the time of the incident. Officer Young emphasized the importance of gun safety, urging firearm owners to keep them away from younger individuals.
The investigation is still ongoing, with IMPD’s homicide and child abuse detectives actively working on the case. They are trying to determine if the shooting was an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound. Sadly, this year has seen a high number of juveniles surviving gunshot wounds in Marion County, with 52 cases reported so far. The community has also tragically witnessed sixteen fatal gunshot wounds among juveniles.
Community members, such as neighbor Paul Ingram, expressed their concerns over the prevalence of gun violence among young people. Ingram highlighted the need for responsible gun ownership and stricter laws to prevent such incidents. Last week, a neglect charge was filed against a mother who left a handgun within reach of her six-year-old son, resulting in his accidental death. Marion County Public Health Director, Virginia Caine, has considered declaring a public health emergency in response to the issue.
This is a developing story, and more updates are expected.