In the early evening of November 29, 2021, a tragic incident unfolded inside a home in Wichita, Kansas, leading to the death of 13-year-old Waylon Treat, a Caucasian male. First responders were dispatched to a residence in the 4300 block of S. Bernita just after 6:00 p.m. following a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, they discovered the young boy with a single, critical gunshot wound to his head.
He was immediately transported to a local hospital in dire condition but was later pronounced deceased.
The investigation into the young boy's death revealed a heartbreaking series of events. It was determined that Waylon's 16-year-old brother had brought a handgun into their home. Both siblings were handling the firearm when it accidentally discharged, striking Waylon and inflicting the fatal injury. Although there were adults present in the house at the time of the incident, they were reportedly unaware that the handgun was in their home.
Law enforcement officials characterized the shooting as a tragic accident. The Wichita Police Department conducted a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the event. Following the completion of their investigation, the case was slated to be presented to the District Attorney's office for review. Initial reports did not indicate any immediate arrests or the involvement of any suspects outside of the accidental nature of the incident involving the two brothers. The community was left to mourn the sudden and devastating loss of a young life.
