Date: June 12, 2024

Subject: Apparent Accidental Shooting Under Investigation by the Holmes County Sheriff's Office

Holmes County Sheriff Tim Zimmerly reports that his Deputies are investigating an apparent accidental shooting that occurred Tuesday afternoon in Clark Township near TR 154.

Sheriff’s dispatch received a 911 call regarding the shooting at around 4:43 P.M. and E.M.S. personnel and Deputies were sent to the scene.

Initial investigation by Deputies indicates a 12-year-old Stone Creek boy was apparently accidentally shot while transporting a single shot rifle on a 4-wheeler. The rifle fell off the ATV while the boy was traveling through a farm field. The rifle hit the ground then discharged.

The victim was shot with a .22 caliber rimfire bolt action single shot rifle. The round entered his chest and then exited through his shoulder, causing only a single wound. The boy was conscious and alert at the time of EMS arrival.

The victim was transported to a nearby landing zone by East Holmes E.M.S. and then transferred to Akron Children’s Hospital by Metro Life Flight Helicopter. His condition is unknown as of this morning.

Deputies were assisted on the scene by East Holmes Fire and EMS.

Investigation into the incident is continuing.

Timothy W. Zimmerly, Sheriff