Man Faces Manslaughter Charge After Tragic Shooting of Eight-Year-Old Boy
A 64-year-old man has been formally charged with gross negligence manslaughter following the tragic death of an eight-year-old schoolboy during what is believed to have been a rabbit hunting expedition in Cumbria.
Details of the Incident and Charge
Jay Cartmell suffered severe injuries at a farm in Warcop, Cumbria, on September 28, 2024. He was airlifted to hospital but sadly succumbed to his injuries later that same day. The Crown Prosecution Service has now charged Allan Thursby, 64, of Cleator Moor in Cumbria, with gross negligence manslaughter in connection with the incident.
According to official statements, Jay sustained serious head injuries involving the discharge of a firearm by Mr. Thursby. An inquest into the boy's death previously concluded that he died from a suspected shotgun injury during a rabbit shooting expedition, which occurred approximately 45 miles from his family home.
Legal Proceedings and Family Tribute
Allan Thursby was arrested on September 28, 2024, and has been on police bail since that time. He has now been bailed to appear at Carlisle Magistrates' Court on March 26, 2025, to face the manslaughter charge.
In a heartbreaking statement issued through Cumbria Police, Jay's parents Leigha and James paid tribute to their 'perfect little boy' who was 'loving, kind and full of mischief.' They described Jay as the 'third corner of our beautiful family triangle' and shared details about his vibrant personality and interests.
The family's statement revealed:
- Jay loved outdoor activities and getting muddy
- He was developing a passion for Speedway racing at Workington, following in his father's footsteps
- He was a talented rider showing real promise in the sport
- Jay played as a defender for Whitehaven Miners Football Club
- His football heroes were Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi
- He dreamed of moving to Brazil to meet Messi
His parents added: 'Jay was extremely loved, not only by us, but by all who met him. He had fantastic friends and always had a smile on his face. We will miss him every day, but his love surrounds us and his memory will never fade.'
Official Statements and Legal Warnings
Malcolm McHaffie, Head of the Crown Prosecution Service's Special Crime Division, stated: 'Our prosecutors have worked to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring the case to court and that it is in the public interest to pursue criminal proceedings. We have worked closely with Cumbria Police as they have carried out their investigation into the circumstances of this death.'
Mr. McHaffie emphasized that proceedings against the defendant are active and that he has the right to a fair trial. He issued a strong warning: 'It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.'
The CPS representative concluded by expressing that their thoughts are with the family of Jay Cartmell during this difficult time.
