The Alexandria Police Department is investigating the death of a four-year-old child following an accidental shooting incident involving a stolen firearm.

According to authorities, officers responded to a local hospital at approximately 10:48 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, after a child arrived with an apparent gunshot wound. The child later died from injuries sustained in the incident.

Detectives determined the shooting occurred in the 3000 block of Houston Street following a birthday party. Investigators said two four-year-old children were playing unsupervised inside a residence with an illegally possessed stolen firearm when the weapon discharged, fatally striking one of the children.

Police said the investigation remains active and ongoing, and charges are pending.

Alexandria Police Chief Chad Gremillion called the incident a preventable tragedy and urged firearm owners to properly secure weapons by keeping them unloaded, locked away, and inaccessible to children at all times.

The Alexandria Police Department said it is working with the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services in connection with the case.

Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Alexandria Police Detective Division at (318) 441-6416 or APD Dispatch at (318) 441-6559. Information may also be emailed to APDDetectives@cityofalex.com.