Man Arrested After Allegedly Shooting Ex-Girlfriend’s 7-Year-Old Son
[CITY, STATE] — A man is in police custody after a shocking act of violence in which he allegedly shot his ex-girlfriend’s 7-year-old son on Saturday night, leaving the child hospitalized and the community reeling in outrage.
The incident occurred shortly before 9 p.m. in the 300 block of [Street Name], according to the [Local Police Department]. Officers responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire in a residential neighborhood. When they arrived, they found the young boy suffering from a gunshot wound.
Emergency medical personnel rushed the child to [Hospital Name], where he underwent emergency surgery. Authorities have not yet released details on his current condition, but family members have said he remains in critical care.
Investigators quickly identified the suspect as [Suspect’s Full Name, Age], the former boyfriend of the boy’s mother. Police allege that the man arrived at the home and became involved in a heated argument with his ex-girlfriend. At some point during the confrontation, he reportedly produced a firearm and opened fire, striking the child.
“This was an absolutely senseless and heartless act,” said [Police Chief/Spokesperson Name] during a press briefing. “There is no justification for harming an innocent child. We will ensure the suspect is held fully accountable.”
Neighbors described the scene as chaotic and heartbreaking. “I heard screaming, and then I saw paramedics carrying the boy out,” one witness told reporters. “It’s something I’ll never forget.”
Following the shooting, the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle. Police issued an alert to surrounding jurisdictions, and he was arrested less than two hours later after a traffic stop on [Highway/Street Name]. Officers reported recovering a firearm believed to have been used in the shooting.
The suspect has been booked into the [County Jail Name] on multiple charges, including attempted murder, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and child endangerment. Prosecutors have indicated that additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for stronger domestic violence protections, especially for children caught in the crossfire of volatile relationships. Advocacy groups are urging victims of domestic disputes to seek help before conflicts escalate into violence.
“This tragedy is a stark reminder of the devastating impact domestic violence can have on families, especially children,” said [Name], director of [Local Advocacy Organization]. “We must do more to intervene early and protect the most vulnerable.”
Police are continuing to interview witnesses and review evidence, including surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses. They are also working closely with child protection services to ensure the safety of the family moving forward.
As the boy fights for his life, the community has begun rallying in support, with an online fundraiser launched to assist with medical expenses and emotional recovery. Messages of hope and prayers for the child’s healing have poured in from across the city.
The suspect is scheduled to make his first court appearance on [Day], where a judge will consider the charges and bail.
For now, the family’s focus remains on one thing — the recovery of a little boy whose life was forever changed in an instant.