No Charges for Washington Boy, 13, in Accidental Shooting

SF Gate

The Pierce County Prosecutor's office says no criminal charges will be filed against a 13-year-old boy who accidentally shot his friend earlier this year.

Prosecutor Mark Lindquist says there wasn't enough evidence to support a criminal recklessness or negligence. He says the shooting was a "heartbreaking tragedy that illustrates the importance of handling guns responsibly."

Authorities say that on Feb. 6, several boys ranging in age from 12 to 14 were at a home after school when the boy who lived there pulled out a shotgun to show to the others, all of whom were friends. That boy gave the gun to another boy. The 13-year-old victim —Eddie Holmes — was shot a short time later in the chest.