Boy, 13, critically wounded by gunfire, apparently while playing with firearm
Two other teenagers detained in relation to incident in Rishon Lezion; police suspect one of them took father’s gun without his knowledge
A 13-year-old boy was critically injured by gunfire in Rishon Lezion on Sunday while playing with a handgun with friends.
The incident occurred in an open area close to the city’s Elef Complex, a commercial and residential project currently under construction.
The Israel Police have opened an investigation into the incident, which they suspect occurred as the group of teens were “handling a firearm belonging to one of their parents.”
First responders with the Magen David Adom emergency service who treated the boy said they found him unconscious with no vital signs and suffering gunshot wounds. He was taken to Wolfson Medical Center in Holon in critical condition.
Two teenagers have been detained for questioning over the incident, and Ynet reported that the father of one of the detained boys will be questioned as well, after the licensed firearm was traced back to him.
As they suspect that the gun was taken without his knowledge, Ynet said police will investigate how the teen’s father stored the gun at home, and whether he followed the required safety guidelines. He has had a gun license since 1992, the report added.
Police Chief Daniel Levy visited the scene of the shooting along with other senior officers.
Central District Police Commander Yair Chatzroni told the Ynet news outlet, “This is a tragic, very difficult event. It looks like it was an accident. I believe the picture will become clearer soon.”
“Regrettably, playing with a weapon led to the boy being injured,” he said.
He advised parents to be cautious and to ensure their firearms are stored in a safe place, particularly in light of the upcoming summer vacation period, when their children will be at home more.
The Times of Israel Community.