On Saturday evening, officers with the Alliance Police Department responded to the report of a juvenile male sustaining a gunshot wound.
Officers responded to the call in the 1500 block of Toluca Avenue at approximately 7:03 p.m. and began their investigation. According to Alliance Police Chief Philip Lukens, the investigation into the incident is ongoing, but they suspect the gunshot wound was accidentally self inflicted based on several witness reports.
“The Alliance Police Department and the community as a whole are deeply saddened at this tragedy,” said Lukens. “Our thoughts and prayers are extended to the family and the children of the community as they endure the days to come. Our officers have coordinated with the schools, the Crisis Response Team, and the Native Futures Leader to provide support across the community.”
As of press time, Lukens said he was unable to update the juvenile’s status. Lukens said in the wake of this incident the APD is working on developing educational courses about firearm safety as well as planning to provide gun safety locks. He said more information about the courses will be released in the coming weeks.