14-year-old charged with homicide in friend’s death
A 14-year-old boy was charged with homicide after he allegedly shot his friend while playing with a gun Sunday.
John Burnsworth, 14, of Mount Pleasant told police he was playing with the gun when it went off, according to the affidavit.
The victim was identified by the Westmoreland County coroner as James Gustafson, 13, of Mount Pleasant.
Mount Pleasant police Officer Justin James found him dead on the kitchen floor, according to the affidavit of probable cause.
He found the gun on the front porch and placed it into evidence, according to the affidavit.
Police said Burnsworth told police he was playing with the gun when it went off. Police were called to the residence at 151 South Church St. just before 7 p.m. Sunday, according to the affidavit.
Deputy Coroner Timothy O’Donnell pronounced the victim dead about one hour after the call.
A witness told police she heard a bang and saw Burnsworth lowering the gun. Several witnesses were at the scene, according to the affidavit.
Burnsworth is charged with homicide and possession of a firearm by a minor, according to court documents. He was arraigned at 12:45 a.m. Monday by Magisterial District Judge Roger F. Eckels.
Burnsworth is being held without bail at the county juvenile detention center.