YONKERS – Yonkers Police responded shortly before midnight Sunday night to an apartment within 358 Nepperhan Avenue on a report of a 12-year-old child down bleeding from the head. The boy was on the bedroom floor., Yonkers Fire Department and Empress Emergency Medical Services members rendered aid and transported to a local area hospital where he is currently listed in grave condition and is not likely to survive.

Ann initial investigation, including interviewing witnesses and family members, indicated that the victim was home alone with a younger neighbor in separate rooms. At some point, the victim discovered or came into possession of a loaded handgun and discharged two cartridges in the bedroom, with one bullet striking a window and the other striking the victim in what appears to be a self-inflicted, potential accidental injury.  

First responders located an illegal, loaded .25 caliber semi-automatic pistol at scene. Investigators are working to determine how the handgun came to be possessed by a child, and the origins and transfer history of the same; family members are being interviewed at this time. The identity of the victim will not be disclosed. This is an active and on-going investigation; additional information may be released as it becomes available.

The City of Yonkers and Yonkers Police Department reminds individuals that all firearms must be safeguarded from children. Gun locks are available for free at the Yonkers Police Community Affairs Division (914) 377-7375