INDIANA — A young child died Friday afternoon after being shot inside a home on Indianapolis’ near-north side, authorities said.
The child, whose name and exact age have not yet been released, was brought to IU Health Methodist Hospital around noon by a man, a woman, and another young child, according to Officer Tommy Thompson of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD). The girl later died from her injuries.
Investigators believe the shooting occurred at a residence in the 2000 block of Ralston Avenue, located in the Coopers & Pickens neighborhood, not far from the I-70 interchange at Keystone Way and North Rural Street.
Detectives found multiple firearms at the scene, though the exact number has not been disclosed.
IMPD said the weapons were not stored securely.
It remains unclear whether the shooting was accidental or intentional. Homicide detectives are involved in the investigation, but no determination has been made about potential criminal charges.
The Indiana Department of Child Services also responded to the scene and is conducting its own investigation. It is not yet known whether the agency had prior contact with the family.
Officer Thompson reminded the public that free gun locks are available at Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library locations.
