A deadly shooting in upstate New York has left one child dead and another facing serious criminal charges.

A 13-year-old boy was arrested and charged with second-degree murder following the fatal shooting of an 11-year-old boy inside a Newburgh home on Thursday, according to Fox News. Officers in Newburgh, positioned about 60 miles north of New York City, responded to the incident around 8 a.m. at 184 North Miller Street.

Police discovered the young victim deceased from a gunshot wound upon their arrival. The Newburgh Police Department released information about the case in a Friday press release.

Rapid Investigation Leads to Arrest

Local authorities immediately launched an investigation into the fatal shooting. The City of Newburgh Detective Division and the Non-Fatal Shooting Task Force began working the case.

Investigators recovered a firearm at the scene. Three minors of interest were quickly identified and located by police. Authorities arrested the 13-year-old male suspect within 12 hours of the initial response. He faces second-degree murder charges in connection with the death.

Details About Suspect and Victim Relationship

The arrested boy was not related to the victim, according to police statements. Authorities have not disclosed additional information about how the two children knew each other.

One source reported the young victim was shot in the head during the incident. According to FOX 5 New York, other children were playing with a firearm when the shooting occurred.

The circumstances suggest multiple minors were present at the residence. Police have not released details about adult supervision at the time of the incident.

School Community Responds to Tragedy

The victim was a student in the Newburgh Enlarged City School District. Dr. J. Manning Campbell, superintendent of schools, released a statement Friday addressing the tragedy.

"The loss of one young life and the arrest of another is an unimaginable tragedy, one that deeply affects our entire school community," Campbell said in the statement. "Two children, full of potential, now represent devastating losses in different ways." Campbell expressed condolences to those impacted by the incident. "Our hearts ache for their families, their friends, their teachers, and everyone who has been touched by this tragedy," he said.

Support Services Offered to Students

The school district is providing support services and counseling to students and staff. Campbell encouraged those affected to seek assistance during this difficult time. "Please do not hesitate to reach out. No one should carry this pain alone," the superintendent said. Campbell called on the community to support one another through the tragedy.

"As we mourn the loss of life and reflect on the deep impact of this event, let us hold one another in compassion and recommit ourselves to nurturing hope, safety, and love for all of our children," he stated. Neither the Newburgh Police Department nor the school district immediately responded to requests for additional comment.

Lessons to Learn

1. Secure Firearms at All Times: Tragedies like this highlight the critical need for guns to be safely stored in homes, especially when children are present. Firearms should be locked away and inaccessible without adult supervision. Laws and best practices regarding safe storage must be firmly communicated and followed.

2. Start Conversations About Gun Safety Early: Educating children about the dangers of firearms is an essential step for families who own guns. Talking early and often about the risks can help prevent curiosity from turning deadly.

3. Remember: Crime Can Affect Anyone: While preparation and safety measures are important, it is crucial to understand that no one is immune to harm. We should focus on supporting victims and communities instead of casting blame — especially when children are involved.

Why This Story Matters

This tragic incident underscores the importance of responsible gun ownership and the dangers of firearms in homes with children. It raises difficult, but necessary, conversations about youth violence, mental health, and the systems in place to protect minors. The loss has left a deep hole in the Newburgh community and emphasizes the need for continued investment in violence prevention programs and emotional support resources for young people. The death of a child is a community-wide wound — and this story serves as a grave reminder of how quickly life can change when safety measures fail.

As this devastating case continues to unfold, Newburgh residents and school officials are mourning the loss of a young life and reflecting on the many lives now permanently altered. A 13-year-old boy now faces serious criminal charges, and the community is in pain, struggling to process how a deadly weapon got into the hands of children. As support services provide care for students and families, investigators continue the search for answers and accountability.