Michael Meagher, 9, was reportedly found with gunshot wounds in a Wisconsin neighborhood early Monday morning. (GoFundMe)
Walworth County, Wis.
A young boy has reportedly died in a shooting and his stepfather is under arrest.
According to the Lake Geneva Police Department, officers were called to a reported shooting at a residence on Lincoln Avenue Monday at about 2 a.m.
Authorities said Steven Merkel Jr., 52, was arrested at the scene and charged with first-degree reckless homicide after the shooting victim died at the hospital.
WISN reports that the victim was identified as 9-year-old Michael Meagher and Merkel was the boy’s stepdad.
Geneva Police Chief Anthony Miceli shared that it was a difficult and traumatic scene for his officers.
“It’s a hard scene for any officer; you never want to see that,” Miceli was quoted regarding the situation.
Loved ones have since started a GoFundMe to help with the boy’s funeral arrangements.
“Our family is heartbroken. I want to try to help this family in any way that I can,” organizer Katherine Koskinas wrote. “Michael was 9 years old & a bright, funny boy. Please pray for this family during this difficult time.”
WIFR reports Merkel lived at the address where the shooting occurred and he was booked into the Walworth County jail.