12-year-old boy shoots younger brother dead in Taraba
A twelve-year-old boy, identified as David Kingsley, has shot and killed his six-year-old brother, Solomon Kingsley, in Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday evening within the family compound in the Nukkai area of Jalingo metropolis, sparked widespread concern and questions, particularly regarding how the teenager gained access to a firearm.
Residents in the area recounted moments of fear and confusion upon hearing the gunshot, initially fearing an invasion by bandits or kidnappers.
Upon realising the source of the gunfire, they discovered the tragic reality unfolding within their community; the discovery, which they claimed compelled them to come out of their hideouts.
According to eyewitnesses, the accidental shooting occurred when David Kingsley mistakenly discharged the firearm, resulting in the death of his younger brother.
The source of the gun remains unclear, as the father of the children is not affiliated with any security or force personnel.
The incident came just weeks after three children lost their lives in Didango Geit village of Karim-Lamido Local Council due to an accidental discharge from a Dane gun.
The recent incident, according to a security expert who craved anonymity, further highlighted the urgent need for gun safety awareness and measures to prevent such tragedies from recurring.
Efforts to obtain a statement from the father of the children were futile, as he declined to comment, citing grief over the loss.
Reacting, the Acting Police Public Relations Officer of the state command, Kwache Gambo, appealed for patience, promising to provide further details after consulting with the Commissioner of Police.
But, there was no response from the police authorities at press time.