Detroit police are investigating the shooting death of a 15-year-old boy on the city’s northwest side Saturday night.
Police say it appears the teen died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound but are calling the shooting accidental as they investigate.
“Right now it doesn’t appear that he had any emotional issues, it’s definitely under investigation, but right now we’re considering it to be, it appears, accidental,” Captain Constance Slappey said.
Officers arrived at the home in the 14800 block of Steel St. near Hillview just before 8 p.m. Police say it is unclear at this time who the gun belonged to and how the teen got a hold of it. The boy’s siblings and mother were home at the time of the shooting.
Captain Harold Rochon said they are interviewing family members. Although the circumstances of the shooting remain under investigation, Rochon reiterated the importance of keeping guns secure and away from children and teenagers.
“When there are weapons in the house, it’s a parent’s responsibility to make sure they secure these weapons where these young kids can’t get to them. That’s absolutely critical, especially in the time we’re living in now,” he said.
Police do not have anyone in custody at this time.
