9-Year-Old Child Fatally Shot Inside Gary Home Saturday Evening
GARY — The Gary Police Department is investigating the tragic death of a 9-year-old child who was shot Saturday evening inside a home on the city’s east side.
According to officials, officers were dispatched around 6:29 p.m. on October 4 after a 911 hang-up call was traced to a residence in the 400 block of Madison Street. Before police arrived, a separate call came in from Methodist Northlake Hospital, reporting that a 9-year-old gunshot victim—a Gary resident—had arrived at the hospital by private vehicle.
Upon arrival at the Madison Street home, officers secured the scene and began their investigation. A short time later, hospital staff informed detectives that the young victim had succumbed to their injuries and was pronounced deceased.
The child’s remains were transferred to the Lake County Coroner’s Office for further examination. Authorities have not released the victim’s name, citing privacy and respect for the family.
In a statement Sunday, the Gary Police Department emphasized the “critical importance of responsible gun ownership and rigorous gun safety practices,” noting that every firearm owner has a duty to ensure weapons are properly secured and stored away from minors and unauthorized individuals to prevent accidental shootings.
The department added that it is working closely with the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office to promote community education and awareness on firearm safety to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
“We understand the profound impact this heartbreaking loss has on our community,” the statement read. “It is essential to share only verified facts, particularly when children are involved. We remain committed to a thorough and transparent investigation.”
The Gary Police Department extended its deepest condolences to the family and all those affected by the tragedy.
The investigation remains ongoing.
