SHELBYVILLE, Ky. — A ten-year-old boy died after being shot in the chest Sunday, according to Shelbyville Police Sergeant Kelly Cable.
Police and EMS were dispatched to a house on Zelkova Drive around 2:20 p.m.
The 10-year-old boy, who lived in the home, was taken to UofL Health - Shelbyville Hospital where he later died from his injuries.
Monday police identified the child as Eric Perez.
"Everybody around here is shocked," shared Destiny Newman. She lives a few blocks from where the shooting happened. Newman told WHAS11 News she heard the sirens Sunday, but didn't know what happened, until she checked social media.
"He was just a fun and energetic little boy -- he did his own little thing, that's why its so shocking."
Police also confirmed they have spoken with 28-year-old Treymont Rucker-McKellery who had been considered a person of interest. Rucker-McKellery and a family friend left the scene after the shooting.
Sgt. Kelly Cable tells WHAS11, they we're able to get in touch with Rucker- McKellery through a second party.
"What I do know is that the second party says he is very distraught about it and rightfully so."
After talking with Rucker-McKellery and other witnesses, police said their preliminary investigation shows the shooting to be accidental.
"That's hard especially with the holidays coming up.im sure the family had plans in what they were going to do. And now they have to plan a funeral."
The case will now be turned over to the Commonwealth Attorney’s office for further review, detectives said.
Community members are working together with the help of several groups including Shannon's funeral home and JT's way -- to help with funeral costs.
Shelby County Public School officials say they have counselors available at both elementary schools that Erik attended.
"Shelby County Public Schools has a Crisis Response Team made up of professionals trained to help with the needs of students, parents, and school personnel at difficult times such as this. We will have counselors available at Wright Elementary and throughout the district for any student or staff who may want or need help or assistance surrounding this loss. We encourage parents to also feel free to use our resources.
We are saddened by this loss to our school community and will make every effort to help our community and students during this difficult time," Dr. Sally Sugg, Shelby County Public Schools superintendent, said.
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