SOUTH SEATTLE - He is just 10 years old, but authorities say he led a violent group assault against another teenager on a Metro bus.
"This is pretty disturbing," says Seattle Police Spokesperson Mark Jamieson. "Anytime you find kids that young with firearms is disturbing."
On Tuesday night aboard the 7 Route, authorities surrounded a Metro bus after reports of gunfire and a robbery. Initially officers found a 10-year-old boy bleeding from the arm. That boy claimed to be the victim and accused a 17-year-old of attacking him.
Investigators say after multiple interviews, they determined the 10-year-old boy was lying.
According to police, the 10-year-old and his two brothers, ages 12 and 14, harassed the 17-year-old and attempted to rob him.
Authorities say when the 10-year-old started digging in his backpack for a 22 caliber semi-automatic pistol, the victim "bear-hugged" him.
"During the struggle that ensued, a shot was fired," said Jamieson.
The 10-year-old was taken to the hospital and released to the Youth Detention Facility. Prosecutors say the 10-year-old and his 12-and 14-year-old brothers will appear before a judge Thursday for a Detention hearing. All three are being held for investigation of robbery.
"What possesses a child at the age of ten and he or she should carry a gun." says minister Daniel Dean. In 2008, Dean help establish the Youth Violence Prevention Network. The organization was set up to try and keep kids away from violent incidents like the one aboard the Metro bus.
Minister Dean says, "We want to get to the kids and get to the youth before violence happens."
Dean says he tries to provide support, activities and positive role models for kids.
"We want to start at young ages," said Dean. "I believe 5 or 6 is a good age to start."
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