‘Tragic situation’: Older brother arraigned on gun charges in 12-year-old boy’s shooting death

BOSTON — A 12-year-old boy lost his life in a “tragic” incident inside a home in Boston’s Mattapan section on Thursday when his older brother’s gun somehow went off, officials said.

Walter Hendrick, 22, of Mattapan, was arraigned Friday morning on charges including improper storage of a firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition. A judge set his bail at $2,500 and ordered him to surrender any other weapons.

“There were no answers there, none,” said Diane Ellis, grandmother. Ellis wants to know why her 12-year-old grandson, Savion, is dead.

“As you can tell, this is a tragic situation. Mr. Hendrick’s just lost his younger brother,” Hendrick’s attorney told the court as he hid out of the sight of cameras. “He’s supported here by his family who is sitting in the front row...They want him home. This is something that’s going to take time to process for Mr. Hendrick’s as well.”

Officers responding to a reported shooting at 35 Fessenden Street just after 2 p.m. found the 12-year-old victim suffering from an apparent gunshot, city officials said. The boy was rushed to a hospital where he eventually died from his injuries.

It’s not clear who fired the gun or what led up to the discharge of the firearm. An 8-year brother was also in the apartment, but it is not clear where in the home.

Prosecutors said in court that a firearm was located in the home after the shooting, as well as a single shell casing.

Hendrick “made statements indicating ownership of the involved firearm,” according to prosecutors. There was also another sibling under the age of 21 present when the gun went off.

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Arrest made after 12-year-old boy shot and killed in Mattapan Arrest made after 12-year-old boy shot and killed in Mattapan

Hendrick’s attorney also told the court that her client is a graduate of the Snowden International School who has never been in trouble with the law before. He also has a baby on the way.

“This is a first offense for him. He’s never been arrested in his entire life,” the attorney said, assuring the judge that her client would return to court. “He has a child on the way who is expected to be born next month.”

Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden urged community members to turn in their guns during a news conference after the shooting.

“Unfortunately we’re here on another sad and tragic afternoon that frankly stems from too many guns on the street,” Hayden said. “A young loss of life like this is simply unacceptable. It’s tragic and just simply unspeakable.”

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu called the child’s death a “horrible tragedy for the entire city.”

The incident isn’t being investigated as a homicide at this time.

Most family members kept their heads covered as they left. “He was a good kid, definitely want to let them know that,” said one man leaving the courthouse.

Diane Ellis wiped away tears on her way home saying doesn’t know what to feel. “Until I get some answers my feelings are numb just numb. I can’t say whether I am angry or pissed off just numb,” said Ellis.

Hendrick is due back in court on September 6.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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