California police shot and killed a 13-year-old boy holding a toy rifle.
The tragedy occurred in Santa Rosa where the teen was apparently carrying a
replica AK27 that belonged to a friend. Two deputies say they opened fire after
they ordered him to drop the gun and he refused. The boy died at the scene. The
officers involved are now on leave.Below is more from the Associated Press:
SANTA ROSA, Calif. – Northern California sheriff's officials and family members say deputies shot and killed a 13-year-old boy who was carrying a replica assault weapon.
Two Sonoma County deputies saw the boy walking with the replica weapon around 3 p.m. Tuesday in Santa Rosa. Lt. Dennis O'Leary says they repeatedly ordered him to drop what appeared to be a rifle before firing several rounds.
The boy fell to the ground. Deputies handcuffed him and began administering first aid, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. O'Leary says deputies also found a plastic handgun in his waistband.
The boy's father, Rodrigo Lopez, told the Press Democrat of Santa Rosa the victim was his 13-year-old son, Andy.
The deputies have not been identified.
