Boy, 10, Accused of Shooting His 9-Year-Old Friend: ‘Mama, He Shot Me on Purpose,’ Child Alleged from His Hospital Bed

A 9-year-old boy was allegedly shot by a 10-year-old friend in Alexandria, Louisiana — a case police reportedly now believe involved an intentional shooting.

The child, identified only as Tre’Michael by local outlet KALB, was with the other child on Dec. 6 when the incident happened, according to a news release from the Alexandria Police Department (APD).

Tre’Michael was taken to the hospital. His mother, Lakisha Ledguies, told KALB that her son later said from his hospital bed that he believed the shooting was done on purpose.

“When the tube first came out of his mouth and he was able to talk, the first word was me, ‘Mama, Mama, he shot me on purpose,’” she said.

Ledguies also told the outlet her son is 9 years old, though police stated in their release that he is 8.

The APD initially believed the shooting was accidental, but after additional investigation, authorities said they determined it was intentional, KALB reported, citing police.

According to KALB and The Mirror, the 10-year-old was arrested on suspicion of aggravated second-degree battery and juvenile in possession of a handgun. Because the child is a juvenile, his identity has not been released.

It remains unclear how the child obtained the weapon, or whether anyone else has been — or will be — charged in connection with the shooting.

A GoFundMe to raise funds for Tre’Michael during his recovery was later created by a family member.

Describing the recovery as “an unimaginable journey,” the relative wrote that Tre’Michael’s injuries were severe, alleging he lost his right kidney, half of his left lung, and that his intestines were shattered by the bullet.

“Our family is still in shock, and every day brings new challenges as he fights to recover from this traumatic event,” the family member added.

The relative also said the family is “deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and support from our community.”

“Thank you for standing with us during this incredibly difficult time,” they wrote. “Your kindness and generosity mean more than words can express, and we are overwhelmed with gratitude for every act of compassion shown to our family.”

The APD did not immediately provide updated information on Sunday, Jan. 11. Contact information for Ledguies was not immediately available.