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Published on April 03, 2024
5-Year-Old Child Fatally Shot in Michigan's Garfield Township, State Police InvestigateSource: Tony Webster from Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A tragic incident unfolded in Garfield Township near Newaygo, Michigan, where a 5-year-old child was shot and killed, according to state police. The deadly event happened on Monday afternoon at a home within the township, with Michigan State Police responding around 3:25 p.m. after receiving reports of a shooting involving a child.

Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered the young child with a fatal gunshot wound. The name of the child has not been released by authorities, and the details surrounding the shooting and how the child accessed the gun remain unclear, WOODTV reported. The investigation is active, with officials noting that there is no threat to public safety at this time.

Expressing the gravity of the situation, MSP Lt. Michelle Robinson stressed the impact of the loss on the community. "Any time you have any type of situation like this where a child’s life has been lost, it’s an incredible tragedy for the community," Lt. Robinson told WOODTV. She urged the community to remember the suffering family, saying, "Keep this family in your thoughts this evening."

Meanwhile, Lt. Robinson addressed the emotional toll of the incident, "Hold your children tight tonight, give them an extra hug because there is one family that is grieving right now and we need to respect their privacy right at the moment," she stated in a sentiment echoed in reports by both, WZZM and FOX 17. As the investigation continues, the small community waits for answers and clings to hope that such tragedies may be prevented in the future.