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'Dream kid' killed by falling bullet at family cookout

HAMMOND, Indiana — A 13-year-old died after being struck by a bullet that "fell out of the sky," according to police.

The Indiana boy, Noah Inman, was playing basketball with family members around 9:30 p.m. July 1 when he suddenly fell to the ground, reports Fox 47.

The boy was rushed to the hospital and while there, doctors discovered a bullet in his head.

A northwest Indiana teen has died, six days after he was hit by a bullet that was likely shot into the air like a firework.

Posted by NBC Chicago on Sunday, July 9, 2017

He was in critical condition in a Chicago children's hospital for seven days before he died.

"He was surrounded by family who love him dearly. He fought hard and we know he is finally at peace," a family friend wrote on a GoFundMe page. 

Police said they believe the gunfire was part of a "pre July 4 weekend celebration" and had been shot into the sky like fireworks.

The GoFundMe has already raised $23,227.

"The outpouring of love, prayers, and support we have received is a testament to the impact Noah has on those around him," wrote the family friend.

Noah was a baseball player, selected for the Babe Ruth All-Star team, reports the Chicago Tribune. His teammates played in a tournament while he was in the hospital, the entire time Noah was on their mind, the coach said. The coach described Noah as a "dream kid" to have on the team. 

"He hustled in everything he did. If you told him to catch on a 100-degree day, he would catch the whole game," Juan Maldonado said. "If you had to bench him because there were too many kids, he would sit without complaining. There are always a few kids who're tough to coach, but Noah was one of the perfect kids."

No one is in custody in connection with the shooting, according to Hammond police, who continue to investigate.

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