Police in Newburgh, New York, arrested a 13-year-old suspect within 12 hours of responding to a fatal shooting that killed an 11-year-old child on Thursday. Officers arrived at 184 North Miller Street around 8 a.m., where they discovered the victim, an 11-year-old boy, dead from a gunshot wound, according to a Friday press release from the Newburgh Police Department.
Local authorities, including the City of Newburgh Detective Division and the Non-Fatal Shooting Task Force, launched an immediate investigation into the incident. A firearm was recovered, and three minors of interest were quickly identified and located. Authorities arrested a 13-year-old male suspect for second-degree murder within 12 hours, according to the news release. The boy was not related to the victim, police said.
One source stated the young boy was shot in the head while other children were playing with a firearm, according to FOX 5 New York. The victim was a student in the Newburgh Enlarged City School District, highlighting the devastating impact on the local education system. Dr. J. Manning Campbell, superintendent of schools, expressed profound grief, stating, “The loss of one young life and the arrest of another is an unimaginable tragedy, one that deeply affects our entire school community.” He emphasized the need for support services and counseling for students and staff, urging the community to seek help and come together in compassion during this difficult time.
The case has raised significant concerns about gun safety and youth violence in the community. School officials are working closely with local law enforcement to ensure the safety of students and staff. The Newburgh Police Department and the Newburgh Enlarged City School District did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of life and seeks to address the underlying issues that contributed to this tragedy.