Tragic Accident in Windellama: Nine-Year-Old Boy Dies After Accidental Shooting at Rural Property, Legal Charges Filed

Windellama, NSW — April 13, 2025 — A peaceful Sunday morning in the rural New South Wales town of Windellama turned into tragedy as emergency services responded to a devastating incident involving a young child. Around 11:20 a.m., authorities were called to a property on Fernleigh Close following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers from The Hume Police District discovered that a nine-year-old boy had suffered a gunshot wound resulting from the accidental discharge of a firearm.

Despite the rapid response of paramedics and medical personnel, the young boy tragically succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The fatal wound was reportedly to the neck, and while investigations remain ongoing, the preliminary findings have led authorities to classify the incident as an accidental shooting.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the quiet, close-knit farming community of Windellama, located approximately 40 kilometers southeast of Goulburn. Police were quick to begin inquiries at the scene, collecting forensic evidence and speaking with those present at the time of the incident.

Following the initial investigation, a 14-year-old boy was charged with possessing an unauthorized firearm. He is scheduled to appear before a Children’s Court on Wednesday, April 17, 2025. It remains unclear whether the teen was handling the weapon when it discharged, but police believe he had unauthorized access to it—raising serious questions about how the firearm came into his possession.

In addition to the charges filed against the teen, a 33-year-old man—reportedly responsible for the firearm—has been charged with several offenses, including allowing an unauthorized person to possess a firearm and failing to store a firearm safely. He is due to appear before Goulburn Local Court on Tuesday, May 14, 2025.

The firearm, believed to be a rifle, was legally owned but improperly stored and secured at the property, according to NSW Police. Authorities are examining whether the weapon had been loaded or if ammunition was stored alongside it in a manner that violated New South Wales firearm regulations.

Superintendent Scott Tanner, commander of The Hume Police District, spoke to the media hours after the incident, stating:

“This is a tragic loss of a young life. Our hearts go out to the boy’s family, friends, and the community at large. Firearm safety is of the utmost importance, and this case highlights the irreversible consequences that can arise from improper handling and storage.”

NSW Police have established Strike Force Dalzeill to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the shooting. Detectives will continue interviewing witnesses, including family members and neighbors, and conducting a thorough forensic examination of the weapon and property.

As of this time, the identity of the victim has not been released, in accordance with privacy protocols and out of respect for the family during their time of grief. Crisis counselors have been made available to the family and members of the Windellama community.

Gun safety advocacy groups have responded with calls for stronger education and enforcement efforts. “This tragedy underscores the fact that even in a country with robust gun laws, complacency around safety can have deadly consequences,” said Rachel King, director of the Australian Gun Safety Foundation.

The incident has reignited public discourse around youth access to firearms in Australia’s regional and farming communities, where guns are more common for pest control and agricultural use. While Australia’s laws require strict firearm licensing and secure storage, enforcement can be challenging in remote areas.

Schools in the surrounding region, including Goulburn and Windellama Public School, are offering grief counseling services for students and teachers impacted by the news.

A report is being prepared for the New South Wales Coroner, and further details are expected to be released as the investigation continues.

If you or someone you know is affected by this story and in need of emotional support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au.