ST. CLAIR COUNTY, Ill. — A 15-year-old boy is in juvenile custody after police said he unintentionally shot a 13-year-old girl in St. Clair County Thursday evening.
According to a press release from the St. Clair County Sheriff's Department, the shooting happened at around 7:15 Thursday evening on Amelia Drive in Cahokia Heights. Deputies arrived to find a 13-year-old girl suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper abdomen.
The girl was taken to St. Louis Children's Hospital for treatment. She has since been released.
Deputies said an investigation found the girl was shot unintentionally. They said a boy was trying to shoot a dog that was charging or attacking him, but the shot accidentally hit the girl.
The boy was taken into custody Thursday and was taken to the St. Clair County Juvenile Detention Facility while the investigation continued.
On Monday, the boy was charged with aggravated discharge of a firearm, unlawful use of a weapon and reckless conduct. The boy is being held at the juvenile detention facility pending future court appearances.
His identity has not been released because he is a minor.
Resources for crime victims:
If you have been a victim of a crime or know someone who has been, 5 On Your Side has compiled a list of resources.
Better Family Life is a nonprofit community development organization working to "stabilize inner-city neighborhoods." One aspect of its mission is a gun violence de-escalation program.
Life Outside of Violence "helps those harmed by stabbing, gunshot or assault receive the treatment, support and resources they need to find alternatives to end the cycle of violence."
The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis has an anti-crime program called “Safety Net for Youth Initiative,” which is a joint partnership with St. Louis Public Schools to provide services to at-risk youth.
Cure Violence is an international organization that has recently launched in a handful of St. Louis neighborhoods. Violence interrupters are trained to deescalate violent situations within their own communities.