Tragedy in Lewiston: 4-Year-Old Child Dies from Gunshot Wound in Early Morning Incident
LEWISTON, Maine — A community is left in mourning after a heartbreaking tragedy unfolded early Saturday morning when a 4-year-old child succumbed to a gunshot wound to the head inside a Lewiston apartment.
According to the Maine State Police, the Lewiston Police Department received a 911 call at approximately 4:58 a.m. on May 17, reporting a child had been shot at 93 Pierce Street, apartment 2. Emergency responders rushed to the scene where they found the child critically injured. Despite the urgent medical efforts, the young victim was pronounced dead just after 7 a.m. at Central Maine Medical Center.
In the hours following the incident, the child’s body was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for a full autopsy to determine the official cause of death. As of Saturday evening, authorities have not released the identity of the child pending family notification.
In accordance with standard procedures for child fatalities, the Maine Department of Health and Human Services has been notified and is now involved in the case. The Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit South has also been called in to assist in what remains an active and sensitive investigation.
Law enforcement officials have not disclosed the circumstances surrounding the shooting—whether it was accidental, self-inflicted, or the result of foul play. No arrests have been announced, and authorities have not said whether a firearm has been recovered from the scene.
“This is an unimaginable loss and a deeply disturbing event for our community,” said a spokesperson for the Lewiston Police Department. “We are working diligently with state authorities to uncover exactly what happened and to ensure justice and accountability where necessary.”
Neighbors and residents of the Pierce Street area expressed shock and sorrow as news of the child’s death spread through the community. Many have placed flowers and stuffed animals near the entrance to the building in an impromptu memorial.
Gun safety advocates and local leaders have also begun speaking out, emphasizing the importance of responsible firearm storage and the pressing need for awareness about child access prevention. “One child lost to gun violence is one too many,” said a local representative. “This tragedy underscores the importance of safe gun storage laws and education.”
While it remains unclear how the child came into contact with the weapon, the case has reignited ongoing discussions across Maine about gun safety in homes, especially those with children.
Officials say more details will be released as the investigation continues. Anyone with information relevant to the case is encouraged to contact the Lewiston Police Department or the Maine State Police.
As the community awaits answers, the loss of this young life leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all who knew the child—and by many who didn’t.