PPD: 15-year-old shot due to unsecured firearm; warrants obtained for 3 adults

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — Portsmouth police said a 15-year-old was shot due to an unsecured firearm Sunday afternoon.

Police responded around 1:30 p.m. Sunday to the 1100 block of Virginia Avenue and found a 15-year-old suffering from a gunshot wound to the abdomen and thigh. He was transported to the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters for treatment.

Police then said that, before officers arrived, the individuals present at the scene attempted to hide the evidence of any additional firearms before they dialed 911.

Adults at the scene told police that a small child had shot the weapon, but police have yet to confirm this detail.

As a result of their investigation, a warrant for child neglect was obtained for Maurice Savage, Naomi Savage and Demetric Ralph.

Portsmouth Chief of Police Stephen Jenkins released a statement on the incident, which can be read in part below:

This incident is a stark reminder of the dire need for responsible gun ownership and the absolute necessity to keep firearms out of the reach of children. Sadly, while this investigation is ongoing, we cannot yet provide an update on the victim’s condition, but we will do so as soon as more information becomes available.

Chief Stephen Jenkins

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