A 10-year-old New Jersey boy has died from a gunshot wound to the head, but police are not looking for a suspect. Washington Township Police responded to a call in the 400 block of Westminster Boulevard on May 6, 2025, around 2:30 p.m. When they arrived, they found an injured child, who died a short time later. He was reportedly home alone, and investigators are trying to determine what happened to the young boy.
The Washington Township police and the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office are actively investigating the case, according to WPVI. Authorities ensured there is no threat to the public and are not searching for a suspect.
The news of the child’s death saddened neighbors.
“It’s shocking, and I’m very sad,” a neighbor named Donna told WPVI. “It’s a shame.”
The child reportedly attended Birches Elementary School, just a few feet away from where he died.
“The Washington Township Public Schools are devastated to learn of the passing of one of our young students at Birches Elementary School. We have maintained constant communication with the Washington Township Police Department regarding the incident,” Washington Township Schools District shared in a statement obtained by NBC 10. “The WTPD are investigating the situation and are handling all communication, as this is being treated as a police and community matter. Our hearts go out to the student’s family and loved ones, and we mourn this sudden loss deeply. We are unable to comment beyond that at this time.”
A moment of silence was held during the district’s school board meeting on May 7. Gerry Taraschi has taught in the district for 50 years. He told NBC 10 that in all those years, 13 students have died.
“This is a very proud community. One that has been around for quite some time, so we all feel the pain,” Taraschi said. “This young man was not one of my students but I can sympathize to those staff members who work in that building.”
The Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office told NBC 10 the investigation remains active, but the shooting was an isolated case. Authorities asked anyone with information to contact Washington Township Police at 856-589-0330.
