Boy, 8, who died after being shot while ‘hunting rabbits’ pictured as tributes pour in – ‘In our hearts forever’
Jay Cartmell, an eight-year-old boy from Frizington, West Cumbria, has been named as the victim of a fatal shooting incident on a farm near Warcop.
The tragedy occurred on Saturday afternoon, September 28, on land close to the A66.
Emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 2.50 pm following reports of a child seriously injured by a firearm. Despite being airlifted to hospital with life-threatening injuries to his head and face, he sadly died overnight.
Cumbria Police have confirmed that a firearm was secured at the scene. The incident has shocked the tight-knit rural community of Warcop, home to around 500 people.
A man in his 60s was arrested at the scene on suspicion of assault, and taken to police custody before later being held on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter. The man was then bailed as police continued their investigations.
Local residents have speculated that the shooting may have been accidental. One source told The Sun: “They had permission to be on the land. There’s been an agreement in place for years for them to rabbit there.”
Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or the moments leading up to it to come forward with information.
Tributes have poured in for Jay, who was a youth player for Whitehaven Miners FC. The club posted on social media: “RIP wee man #oneofour #lanternforlife Our thoughts are with your family, coaches and teammates.”
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Whitehaven AFC expressed condolences, calling it “truly devastating news”. Bransty Rangers JFC also offered sympathies to Jay’s family and friends.
One touching tribute described Jay as “a talented little guy, and full of character. Pleasure to coach, and a pleasure to call my son’s friend. In our hearts forever.”
Local football clubs across west Cumbria have united in mourning the loss of the young player.
Josh MacAlister, MP for Whitehaven and Workington, said: “This is an absolutely tragic and heart-breaking loss of such a young life. I know that our whole community will have Jay’s family in our thoughts.”
Cumbria Police are appealing for witnesses. A spokesman stated: “As officers continue with their enquiries into this incident, they are encouraging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or the moments leading up to it to come forward.”
Anyone with information can report to police online at www.cumbria.police.uk/reportit, quoting incident number 135 of 28 September 2024, or phone 101. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.