Boy Scout, 12, dies of gunshot wound at San Diego camp

SAN DIEGO - A 12-year-old boy at a Boy Scout camp in San Diego was fatally wounded Monday morning, but police are investigating to determine whether or not the shooting was self-inflicted or accidental.

Officials responded to a call shortly after at 7:30 a.m. Monday and found the boy in a tent at the camp at the Fiesta Island Youth Aquatic Center in Mission Bay with at least one gunshot wound, CBS affiliate KFMB reported.

Police spokesman Officer Matt Tortorella said the person who called in the emergency described the incident as an attempted suicide, adding that a pistol was found near the boy's body. A police report said that he was found with a gunshot wound to his upper torso. It is unclear whether or not he was alone.

The boy's father was a chaperone for the troop, and about 20 Scouts were at the camp, Lt. Mike Hastings said.

Officers found a gun in the boy's tent. It wasn't clear where the gun came from or how it got into the camp. The boy, who lived in Las Vegas, was traveling with his troop for a week-long camping trip.

There were no firearm programs or activities available, and Boy Scouts of America policy does not allow personal firearms at its events, organization spokesman Deron Smith said.

"This is an extremely sad day for our entire scouting family," Boy Scouts of America said in a statement. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and all those who experienced this tragedy. Our top priority is providing support to our community and for those in the grieving process."

The boy's family has asked that his name not be released, CBS Las Vegas reported.

The organization said grief counselors were sent to the camp. There is no word yet on whether or not the troop will remain at the camp, or return home.

The weeklong summertime program allows Scouts to camp among sandy dunes on Mission Bay in San Diego. They can sail, kayak, and do other activities while earning merit badges.