Luthersburg, Pennsylvania – A tragic incident in a small community in Brady Township has left a 12-year-old girl dead, with a 14-year-old boy now facing murder charges in the shooting. The shooting occurred in the boy’s home over the weekend, sparking a criminal investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police. The victim was found critically injured with a gunshot wound to the head.
According to court papers, the boy allegedly retrieved his father’s handgun, a Smith and Wesson 9mm, before asking the victim if she wanted to see it. The situation quickly turned tragic when the boy pointed the firearm at the girl, pulled the trigger, and fatally shot her in the head. The girl was rushed to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Children’s Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries on Wednesday.
The father of the boy stated that he did not believe his son knew where the gun was stored, emphasizing that he typically keeps the firearm’s chamber empty. However, investigators noted that the boy may have loaded a round from the magazine, leading to the fatal shot. The boy has been charged as an adult with third-degree murder, involuntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, and reckless endangerment.
Despite the heartbreaking nature of this incident, prosecutors have stressed that the boy’s actions warrant him being charged as an adult. The two children involved were reportedly acquainted with each other but are not related. As the community grapples with this tragedy, the boy remains in custody without bond at the county jail. A preliminary hearing for the case is scheduled for May 10.
This heartbreaking event serves as a somber reminder of the importance of gun safety and responsible firearm handling, especially in households with children. The details of the case continue to unfold as the authorities work to bring justice for the young victim and her grieving loved ones.