Knoxville, TN (WVLT/WOKI) Knoxville Police are investigating a shooting at the YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Center which leaves a 10 year-old in critical condition.
The incident happened this morning on South Cruze Street and police say the 10-year-old boy was shot in an apparent accidental discharge. He was taken to the hospital in critical condition. A 14-year-old person of interest has been detained for further investigation. No other injuries were reported.
YWCA spokespersons communicating with WVLT provided a statement saying parents were immediately informed of the incident after emergency services were called and that officials plan to review safety protocols for the future.
“The safety of the children and staff is the utmost priority of the YWCA. YWCA will determine immediate next steps for review of safety protocols, as well as resources for children and staff following this traumatic event. The YWCA staff and board of directors extend our sincere sympathy to everyone involved, especially the children onsite, the injured person and their loved ones. Please join us in wrapping all of our young people in your love and pray.”
YWCA spokespersons also told WVLT News that there were 43 children signed in at the center when the shooting happened.
