A quiet stretch of Loveless Drive in DeKalb County turned into a crime scene early Wednesday when a 7-year-old child was killed in a shooting, family members told Atlanta News First. Investigators spent hours at the home just off the street, interviewing witnesses and combing through the property for evidence.
Scene And Family Account
According to Atlanta News First, a woman who identified herself as the child's aunt said the shooting was accidental. Police have not confirmed how the shooting happened or released any official account of the moments that led to the child's death.
Other Child-Involved Shootings In DeKalb This Year
The loss comes amid a troubling series of incidents in DeKalb County that have involved children caught in gunfire. On March 2, a 9-year-old was shot at The Park at Somerset apartments, and police said a sibling may have been involved, WSB Radio reported.
In early January, a 3-year-old was critically injured after being struck by gunfire near a gas station on North Stone Mountain–Lithonia Road. Three people were arrested in that case, according to FOX 5 Atlanta.
Police Response And Resources
As of publication, DeKalb County Police had not issued a formal public release about Wednesday's shooting. The department lists its headquarters, precinct locations and public information line for residents and reporters on its website, according to DeKalb County Police.
After the March 2 apartment shooting, officials reminded residents that the department offers free gun safes at precincts to help prevent accidental shootings, CBS News Atlanta reported.
What To Watch
Anyone with information about the Loveless Drive shooting is asked to contact DeKalb County Police or call 911 in an emergency. This is a developing story, and details are expected to be updated as officials release more information.
