Man Released on Bail After Eight-Year-Old Shot at Cumbria Farm

A man is currently out on bail after being detained on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter in the wake of an eight-year-old boy's fatal shooting at a farm in Cumbria. The incident occurred around 2:50 PM on Saturday, September 28, near the A66, north of Warcop. Emergency services quickly arrived at the scene, where they secured the firearm involved, and the boy was airlifted to the hospital. Despite medical efforts, he sadly succumbed to injuries sustained to his head and face.

Initial reports suggest that the boy might have been hunting rabbits at the time of the shooting. A man in his 60s was arrested for assault and later for gross negligence manslaughter but has now been released on police bail. The Cumbria Police are continuing their investigation and are asking for any witnesses to come forward.

Residents of the area believe the shooting was accidental, as corroborated by reports that the individual involved had consent from the landowner to hunt on the property. The farmer has shared his deep sorrow over the incident, stating the devastation of witnessing the event and expressing concern for his elderly mother.

Local mothers have voiced their worries about the impact of the incident on the tight-knit community, reflecting on their children’s safety at nearby schools. Many community members have been affected, as they fear the victim might be someone they know. Concerns were raised about a lack of information regarding the child's identity, adding to the community's shock.

A local man, Frank Chalmers, witnessed the scene shortly after the shooting and described the large police presence. He noted the somber atmosphere and surmised that such a significant police response often indicates a serious incident has occurred. He emphasized the rural nature of the area, where such tragic events have a profound weight on the community.