Man Charged with Manslaughter After 8-Year-Old Boy Fatally Shot in Cumbria

Man Charged with Manslaughter After 8-Year-Old Boy Fatally Shot in Cumbria

Police have issued a significant update in the tragic case of an eight-year-old boy who was killed in a shooting incident in Cumbria. Jay Cartmell, from Frizington, Cumbria, suffered fatal head and face injuries on September 28, 2024, on land near Warcop, close to the A66.

The young boy was urgently transported to hospital by air ambulance following the incident involving the discharge of a firearm. Despite the swift medical response, Jay could not be saved and was pronounced dead shortly after.

Charges Filed in Connection with the Incident

Now, Cumbria Police have confirmed that a man has been charged in relation to this devastating event. Allan Thursby, aged 64, of Dent Place, Cleator Moor, faces a charge of gross negligence manslaughter.

Thursby was initially arrested on September 28, 2024, the same day as the incident, and has been on police bail since that time. The formal charge was announced on March 17, 2026, marking a pivotal development in the investigation.

Legal Proceedings Scheduled

Allan Thursby has been bailed to appear at Carlisle Magistrates' Court on March 26, 2026. This court date will initiate the legal process regarding the allegations against him.

The police statement emphasized: "A man has today been charged with gross negligence manslaughter following the death of eight-year-old Jay Cartmell at Warcop on September 28, 2024. Jay died after sustaining serious head injuries in an incident involving the discharge of a firearm on land not far from the A66, north of Warcop."

This case has deeply affected the local community, highlighting the severe consequences of firearm-related incidents. The charge of gross negligence manslaughter indicates that the authorities believe there was a reckless disregard for safety that led to Jay's untimely death.

As the legal proceedings move forward, the focus remains on seeking justice for Jay Cartmell and his family, while also underscoring the importance of firearm safety and responsibility in rural areas like Cumbria.