Police: Child dies after being shot by another child inside NE Miami-Dade apartment
MIAMI -- Police are investigating after a young child was shot and killed Thursday evening by another child inside a northeast Miami-Dade apartment.
The victim, who was not immediately identified, was airlifted for treatment to a local hospital, where he was treated for a gunshot wound to the chest, but later died from his injuries.
"A 10-year-old child that lost his life because of a firearm that perhaps was mishandled or perhaps wasn't handled in a responsible way," Miami-Dade Police spokesman Alvaro Zabaleta said.
Police tell CBS4's Joe Gorchow that five siblings were home alone at the time. Ages range between 9-15.
The circumstances behind the shooting remain unclear.
Investigators said in a written statement that the shooting happened shortly after 5 p.m. at an apartment located in the 600 block of Ives Dairy Road.
When paramedics arrived, they found the child suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body.
Police said another child in the home pulled the trigger.
Investigators did not immediately elaborate on details about the incident or provide a motive.
"So, we have to take this matter and treat it very delicately and use all the resources necessary when we deal with these children," Zabaleta added.
It was not clear if anyone was in custody or if charges would be filed in connection with the incident.
It remains unclear at this time how and if the weapon was secured or the type of firearm involved in the shooting.
Police continue to investigate.
