Boy, 13, arrested for shooting 14-year-old boy in Westfield

Westfield Police have arrested a 13-year-old boy in connection with a shooting that occurred Thursday evening in Westfield.

Police reports indicate the incident occurred just before 5:30 p.m. in the 1200 block of Scarlet Street located on the city’s west side.

Photo provided by WISH-TV

The victim, a 14-year-old boy, was transported to an Indianapolis hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.

The suspect, whose name has not been released, was taken to the Hamilton County Juvenile Detention Center on charges of aggravated battery and possession of a handgun without a license.

Police have not released a motive, but indicate the suspect and victim did know each other.

Brandi Ruiz, a nearby resident, told news gathering partner WISH-TV that her family moved to the apartments in August. She said there have been issues surrounding crime. Her son, who is also 14, said people have tried to jump him after he gets off the school bus.

Ruiz described the area. “A lot of kids running around here. They’re out of control. The parents aren’t watching their kids. I try to keep my kids inside so they’re not a part of it,” she said.