FAYETTEVILLE — Washington County detectives said the fatal shooting of a 15-year-old boy in Winslow appears to be accidental.
Kelly Cantrell, Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman, said Michael Dillon Brawley, 15, died from a single gunshot wound on Tuesday.
Deputies were called about a report of an accidental shooting at the intersection of Bethlehem Road and Landelius Road at 3:54 p.m.
Cantrell said the investigation of evidence and witness statements indicates Brawley accidentally shot himself.
“We will reserve final determination after the medical examiner report is received, indicating the cause and manner of death,” Cantrell stated in an e-mail.
Cantrell said no other information related to the shooting will be released until the autopsy report is complete.
Brawley was a sophomore at West Fork High School, said Principal John Crowder.
“By everything I’ve heard, he was a fine young man,” Crowder said. “We’re very sad and shocked. It’s somber at the school today.”
Crowder said he didn’t know of any activities the teen was involved in.
Grief counselors were at the high school Wednesday to visit with students. A plan for dealing with the tragedy was implemented Tuesday night by teachers and administrators, Crowder said.
Teachers were instructed to announce to students during first period Brawley had died.
Students are being encouraged not to dwell on rumors and show respect to the family by not spreading rumors, Crowder said.
He hadn't been in touch with the family, but hoped to contact them Wednesday. Brawley’s sister is a senior at the school.