NEW HAVEN, Conn. — New Haven police are investigating after an 8-year-old was shot and later died, inside a home.
Police said they responded to a Howard Avenue home around 10:40 p.m. Thursday.
Officers located the child in a second-floor bedroom suffering from a gunshot wound that was life threatening injuries.
New Haven Fire Department and American Medical Response paramedics were on scene and confirmed the victim had sustained a gunshot wound to the head.
He was rushed to Yale-New Haven Children's Hospital, where officials say he tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Police said the Yale Child Study Center and the Department of Children and Families (DCF) were contacted, and a Child Study Center clinician met with the victim's family at the hospital.
While investigating, detectives seized a handgun and a safe from the home. Police said they believe the child’s death was accidental.
The investigation is ongoing.
“We mourn the tragic loss of such a young member of our community. We ask the community to join us in keeping the family in our thoughts and prayers during this time of unimaginable loss, pain, and grief,” New Haven Police Chief Otoniel Reyes said.
Chief Reyes thanks the men and women of the NHPD, as well as first responders for their compassion and professionalism during such a difficult incident.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the New Haven Police Department at 203-946-6304.