UPDATE: Dead 6-year-old victim in Sunday’s Beaufort shooting is identified
The 6-year-old victim of Sunday’s shooting at Beaufort’s Cross Creek Apartments has been identified as Frankie Washington by Beaufort County Coroner David Ott. The child died at 10:28 p.m., nine hours after police responded to the scene. According to Ott, the child was pronounced dead at the Medical University of South Carolina Children’s Hospital. An autopsy has been scheduled for Thursday
According to police, the child initially survived a gunshot wound to the head and was rushed to an area hospital in critical condition. The incident occurred around 1:15 p.m. Sunday with the Beaufort Police Department responding to reports of gunfire.
According to the police department’s statement, “Upon arrival, officers responded to the residence where they located a juvenile who appeared to have suffered from a gunshot wound to the head. Officers immediately began rendering aid until EMS arrived. The juvenile was transported to a local area hospital with a critical injury.
This was an isolated incident and there is no outstanding threat to the public. At this time, it appears to be an accidental shooting, however this is still an ongoing investigation.”
At 8:44 a.m. today, police released the following, “Update: We are deeply saddened to report that the child has succumbed to the injuries that were sustained on Sunday. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and community during this trying time.”
Beaufort interim Police Chief Stephenie Price was not able to be reached by phone or text Tuesday morning to provide more details including the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting or if any arrests had been made.
This story will be updated when more information becomes available.
Anyone with information is encouraged to please contact Investigator Jayne at 843-322-7972 or if you would like to stay anonymous, please contact our TIP LINE at 843-322-7938 and please reference case #24B08861.
This story was originally published March 5, 2024 at 9:32 AM.
