1 charged after 14-year-old girl killed in accidental shooting in Upper Darby home: police

14-year-old girl shot, killed in Upper Darby home

A 14-year-old girl was fatally shot in her Upper Darby, Delaware County home in what police believe was an accidental shooting involving children playing with a gun. 

UPPER DARBY, Pa. - A 14-year-old girl died after being shot in the head inside her home on the 100 block of Springton Road Thursday afternoon, according to police. Investigators say the shooting appears to be accidental and involved children playing with a gun.

What we know:

Police say they received a call just after 1:30 p.m. and found the teenager shot in the head inside her house. Investigators say the girl was with three friends—another girl and two boys—while her mother was at work.

A neighbor told FOX 29, "This has never happened on this block before. My heart is just so heavy right now for the family for the loss of this individual," said Sheryle Williams Barnes, neighbor.

Police say a witness outside heard the kids playing and did not hear any argument before a single gunshot. 

Officers say the shooting appears to be an awful accident involving children playing with a gun.

Community reacts to loss and supports family

What they're saying:

"Terrible tragedy to get a call when you are at work about your daughter. It's crazy. Never want that to happen to anyone," said Barnes.

Neighbors say they did not know the victim personally, but the family has lived on the block for generations. 

"Any time a young person loses their life, it's a sad occasion, anytime for any reason. Today was a sad day, not only for the family but for the community as a whole, as a community on this block," said Aspara Agyeman, neighbor.

Children returning from school were seen crying and visibly upset by the tragedy, according to neighbors. "The children were all coming home from school. They were crying that knew her. They were really so hurt about this tragedy, so I feel for the children. I feel for the parents, grandparents, everybody on this block," said Barnes.

Officials say the girl was a student at Beverly Hills Middle School. "We feel for the family. We stand with them, support them in whatever capacity we can," said Agyeman.

Dig deeper:

In an update Friday, Upper Darby police say they have filed charges against 14-year-old Nazim Lar in connection with this shooting incident. He is being charged as an adult with Third Degree Murder, Involuntary Manslaughter, Possession of Firearm by Minor and Possession of Instrument of Crime with intent.

Bail was denied for the 14-year-old.

"We ask that everyone keep the family of our 14-year-old victim in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. As always, we appreciate the community’s support and cooperation," the police department continued in its X thread. 

What we don't know:

Police have not released the name of the victim. It is unclear the connection between the victim and Nazim Lar.

The investigation is ongoing. More information may be released as it develops.