FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT

Major Gary McClain

870.541.5351 Office / 870.329.5638 Cell

Email:  gary.mcclain@jeffcoso.org

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JCSO INVESTIGATES ACCIDENTAL SHOOTING:  Jefferson County, Arkansas - July 13, 2023 - Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigators are currently investigating a shooting injury of a 12-year-old boy, who was shot by his 9-year-old brother.

At approximately 3:11 p.m. on Thursday afternoon, deputies were dispatched to a residence located within the 3500 block of Jewell Road in Jefferson County, following a 9-1-1 call of a reported accidental shooting.

Deputies and officers from the White Hall Police Department and Arkansas State Police arrived on scene a short time later to find that a 12-year-old had sustained a single gunshot wound from a pistol.  The young man was transported by Emergency Ambulance Service Incorporated (EASI) to the Jefferson Regional Medical Center (JRMC).  He was shortly later transferred by a medical helicopter to the Arkansas Children's Hospital in Little Rock where he is being treated.  At the time of his interview he was in stable condition.

Investigators believe the shooting was unintentional.  Statements from the boys and surveillance video supports that belief.

"This could have been a tragic incident and I can't emphasize strongly enough that securing firearms in a manner that curious children can't get access to them is paramount to safety in the home", said Sheriff Lafayette Woods, Jr.  "I am appreciative of the quick response by all first responders and pray for a quick and full recovery of the injured child".

The investigation by the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division is ongoing at this time.