First grader dies in 'accidental' DeKalb shooting, family says

DeKalb child killed by gun identified

The 7-year-old boy who apparently shot himself overnight while playing with a gun was identified by the medical examiner. It is unknown if anyone will be charged at this time. Aungelique Proctor reporting. 

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. - DeKalb County police are investigating the tragic shooting death of a 7-year-old boy that occurred inside his home around midnight Wednesday.

7-year-old killed in Loveless Drive shooting

What we know:

Officers responded around midnight to a home on Loveless Drive, located in the Ellenwood area off Bouldercrest Road. Upon arrival, they discovered the child deceased inside the residence.

While official details from the department remain limited, family members at the scene told reporters that the boy was playing with a firearm when it discharged. Police investigators off-camera confirmed they are treating the incident as a "non-intended discharge of a weapon."

The investigation drew a large crowd of grieving family and friends to the neighborhood. The boy was later identified by the DeKalb Medical Examiner Office as Anthony B. Jones III. 

A play car remained in the front yard of the home Wednesday, a somber reminder of the child who lived there.

'Muffled' gunshot heard by neighbor

What they're saying:

"I heard a gunshot, I was just sitting in my truck and I didn't know where it came from, but it sounded muffled like it was inside of a house," said neighbor Chris Breaker. 

Breaker, a father himself, advocated for firearm safety following the tragedy. 

"We just got to be more responsible with the weapons and firearms we have on our house. Kids are moving fast and they are ramblers. If they can get to it and find it and adults aren't around... they are going to play with it," he said. 

Jones was a student at Cedar Grove Elementary School. The school's principal described the boy as an active first-grader who had a genuine love for school. 

What's next:

As of Wednesday morning, authorities have not announced whether any charges will be filed in connection with the child's death. 

Death investigation involving child

A death investigation involving a child is underway in DeKalb County. It is believed at this time that a 7-year-old boy was playing with a gun when he was shot and died. This is a breaking news report. Marc Teichner reporting.