In a tragic incident, an eight-year-old boy lost his life after being shot with an air rifle in St. David, Arizona. The Cochise County Sheriff's Office has confirmed that the shooting occurred around 5 p.m. on Monday. The authorities responded to the scene following reports of the incident.

According to the official statement released by the sheriff's office, deputies discovered the young boy with a gunshot wound to the center of his chest cavity. It was determined that the weapon used was a high-powered air rifle that shoots 22 caliber pellets.

Immediate life-saving procedures were administered at the scene before the victim was rushed to a local hospital. Despite medical efforts, the young boy tragically succumbed to his injuries approximately an hour after the shooting.

Details regarding how the shooting took place were not disclosed by the authorities. The incident is currently under investigation, and the sheriff's office has assured the public that efforts are underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Air rifles, known as beginner guns for children, are commonly utilized in target shooting activities, as indicated by a study conducted by the National Library of Medicine. However, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with the use of such firearms, particularly if not handled responsibly.

Law enforcement officials are urging parents and guardians to exercise utmost caution and ensure that adequate safety measures are in place when allowing children to handle air rifles or any other type of firearm.

As the investigation continues, the community of St. David mourns the loss of this young life. This heartbreaking incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of firearm safety education and responsible handling.

Anyone with potentially helpful information regarding the shooting incident is encouraged to contact the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.