BOSTON (WHDH) - A 22-year-old man was arraigned on weapons charges Friday in connection with the shooting death of his 12-year-old brother in Mattapan on Thursday.
Walter Hendrick is facing charges including improper storage of a firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition. He was arrested on Thursday after gunshots rang out, according to police.
Hendrick pleaded not guilty and a court clerk confirmed Friday afternoon that his family had posted his $2,500 bail.
The boy who was killed, meanwhile, is being remembered by friends and family members after his life was cut short.
“He was helpful, loving, respectful — a lot of respect,” said Diane Ellis, the boy’s grandmother.
Boston police said first responders were called to a triple-decker off Fessenden Street just after 2 p.m. Thursday for a report of a shooting. Once on scene, officials said officers found the boy bleeding on the kitchen floor with a wound to his chest and spent shell casing on the ground.
The boy was taken by ambulance to a hospital, where officials said he was pronounced dead.
“Mr. Hendrick did make statements indicating ownership of the involved firearm,” said prosecutor Nicole Gemba while discussing allegations against Hendrick. “A firearm was found inside of the home. Examination of that firearm is still pending.”
Family members told the judge on Friday that they would come up with the bail money for Hendrick, who has no criminal record.
“They want him home,” said defense attorney Morjieta Derisier. “I think that this is something that is going to take time to process for Mr. Hendrick as well.”
Court documents indicated the boy who died was with his 8-year-old younger brother in their apartment when this incident happened. Police have not answered questions, though, about how the gun went off.
“I want to know why,” Ellis said. “…Until I get some answers, my feelings are numb.”
City leaders previously gathered in Mattapan on Thursday. Mayor Michelle Wu described the situation as “a nightmare.”
Officials including Police Commissioner Michael Cox and Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden also said this was another example of what can happen when too many guns are on the streets.
“I implore folks, if you have guns in your home, particularly illegal or whatever, turn them in to us,” Cox said. “Let us know what we can do to take those off your hands.”
Police remained on scene on Fessenden Street on Friday morning as a memorial for the 12-year-old boy grew.
“He was a really great person,” one person said. “He was playful, a little goofy.”
Authorities have not identified the victim in this case, saying they are waiting for a medical examiner’s report.
Hendrick is due back in court in September.
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