An 11-year-old boy who was shot in the face and neck in Sydney, Australia, has died in hospital, police have confirmed. The incident occurred at around 5pm on Monday, September 21, and the boy was rushed to hospital in a critical condition.
A New South Wales Police spokesperson said: “About 8pm tonight (Thursday), police were informed that the boy had died from injuries sustained. Inquiries are continuing.”
Investigation into the shooting
It is believed a single shot was fired, but the weapon has not been recovered. NSW Police have launched an investigation, with enquiries looking into whether the weapon may have been accidentally discharged as a result of the child handling it.
Following the announcement on Thursday evening, tributes have started to pour in on social media. A man understood to be his father, who cannot be named for legal reasons, posted: "Rip peace my baby."
School and police response
The school the boy attended issued a statement saying they were “deeply saddened” by the news. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, classmates, and all those affected by this tragic loss,” a statement issued on Thursday night reads. “At this difficult time, our focus is on supporting the child’s family and providing wellbeing and counselling support to our students and staff.”
The Hills Police Area Commander, Superintendent Naomi Moore said: “A number of individuals that were inside the unit at the time are well known to NSW Police, and their association with organised crime is being considered by investigators.”
Arrests and charges
Three men, all aged 18, were arrested at the scene. Isaac James Bechara, 18, was taken to Riverstone Police Station and charged with concealing a serious indictable offence. The two others were taken to Castle Hill Police Station, where they were spoken to before being released pending further inquiries.
Mr Bechara did not appear when his matter was mentioned before Blacktown Local Court on Tuesday, with his lawyer appearing on his behalf. No application for bail was made and the matter was adjourned. Police allege Mr Bechara failed, without reasonable excuse, to provide information that could materially assist investigators after becoming aware a serious indictable offence had been committed.
Superintendent Moore said police had previously attended the property but did not add any further detail. “Police are aware of the premises. Police have engaged with the occupants previously,” she said. Moore added that none of the three men arrested were related to the 11-year-old.
