A nine-year-old boy is currently hospitalised following an incident where he allegedly suffered a gunshot wound while on a hunting trip in northwest New South Wales (NSW). The boy was airlifted to the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne for treatment after the incident occurred on March 15, 2024.
The shooting took place near Bourke, a rural town located approximately 800 kilometers northwest of Sydney. Emergency services responded promptly to the scene, with the NSW Ambulance Service confirming that they received a call regarding the incident shortly after it occurred.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, with local police working to gather details about how the incident unfolded. According to a spokesperson from the police department, the boy was part of a group participating in a hunting expedition when the accident happened.
The investigation will focus on the safety measures in place during the trip and whether proper protocols were followed. As the hunting season is currently active, there are heightened concerns about safety in rural areas where hunting activities are common.
Local residents have expressed their shock at the incident. Many have called for greater awareness regarding hunting safety, particularly involving children. “It’s a tragic event that no family should have to go through,” said one local, who wished to remain anonymous.
As of now, there has been no official confirmation on the boy’s current condition, but reports indicate that he is receiving care from medical professionals. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time as they focus on their child’s recovery.
The incident raises important questions about hunting safety regulations, particularly in regions where such activities are prevalent. Community leaders are expected to discuss potential measures to enhance safety protocols in future hunting seasons, ensuring that similar incidents do not occur again.
The police have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward as the investigation continues. Further updates will be provided as more details emerge regarding both the boy’s condition and the circumstances of the shooting.
