Photo: IPGGutenbergUKLtd / iStock / Getty Images
A 13-year-old boy from Newburgh has pleaded not guilty to a murder charge following the fatal shooting of 11-year-old Matthew DeGroat. Prosecutors allege the teen shot DeGroat inside his home on North Miller Street in October. The gun used in the incident reportedly belonged to the 13-year-old, and officials claim he had also pointed it at another person days before the tragedy.
The shooting has left the community in shock and mourning. Matthew's family expressed their gratitude to the City of Newburgh and law enforcement for apprehending the suspect. They also thanked the SNUG program, an anti-gun violence initiative, for its support. The family emphasized that Matthew "will never be forgotten" as reported by the New York Post.
The alleged shooter, whose identity remains undisclosed due to his age, was denied bail and is being held at a juvenile facility. He is scheduled to return to court on December 3. The case has raised concerns about gun access and violence among youth, prompting calls for deeper investigation and prevention measures as highlighted by Hudson Valley News12.