6-year-old shot and killed in Petersburg

PETERSBURG, Va. (WRIC) -- A 6-year-old is dead after police say they were shot in the city of Petersburg late Tuesday evening.

At about 10:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10, officers with the Petersburg Bureau of Police responded to a report of a person shot at Petersburg East Apartments in the 2300 block of Navajo Court.

When officers arrived, they found a 6-year-old with a gunshot wound.

Police immediately took them to the hospital, where they later died due to their injuries.

Detectives are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, but said there is no active threat to the public.

"Our hearts and prayers go out to the family during this time," said Chief Travis C. Christian in a press release. "This heartbreak tragedy also reminds us of all the critical importance of keeping firearms safe and secure and away from children."

No further details, such as what caused this shooting or any suspect information, are available as of the time of reporting.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police or submit an anonymous tip through Petersburg/Dinwiddie Crime Solvers at 804-861-1212 or by sending a tip by downloading the P3tips App to your phone or by going to P3tips.com.