UPDATE: Parents Pay Tribute to Boy Shot In Head On Farm

A family in England is facing up to the grim reality that their eight-year-old boy is no longer with us after being shot in the head on a farm in late September.

Can you imagine the horror of finding out that your child, at such a young age, is gone forever and died in such a horrific way?

At a glance:

  • Eight-year-old Jay Cartmell tragically died after being shot at a farm in Cumbria, England, on September 28.
  • His parents described him as a “loving, kind, and full of mischief” child with a passion for speedway racing.
  • A man in his 60s was arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter and has been released on bail as investigations continue.

The family of eight-year-old Jay Cartmell, who tragically died after being shot on a farm in Cumbria, has paid a heartfelt tribute to their son. Jay was shot on September 28 on land near Warcop, sustaining serious injuries to his head and face. He was airlifted to the hospital, where he later passed away.

Jay’s parents, Leigha and James Cartmell, expressed their grief in a statement issued through Cumbria Police, describing Jay as “loving, kind, and full of mischief.” They added, “He was the third corner of our beautiful family triangle.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fzcV-weZjs

Jay, from Frizington in Cumbria, was an energetic boy who loved the outdoors. His parents shared that the muddier he could get, the better, and he had a passion for speedway racing, a love passed down from his father. Jay had been attending speedway events at Workington since he was just one year old, where he would go to the pit to fist-bump his heroes, local racers Harry and Sam McGurk. He also showed promise as a speedway rider himself.

In addition to his love for speedway, Jay was a proud supporter of the Whitehaven Miners Football Club. His parents fondly remembered that even scoring an own goal did not dampen his enthusiasm for the game. His favorite player was Erling Haaland, and he had dreams of one day meeting Lionel Messi.

https://x.com/CumberlandFA/status/1842189222641299510

Jay also enjoyed spending time with his father, fishing and rabbiting. The family cared for several pets, including lurchers, ferrets, and Jay’s beloved bearded dragon, Spike, which he received as a reward for a school achievement. His parents also noted his talent for mathematics and how much he loved school.

In the wake of this tragedy, Jay’s family has thanked the Air Ambulance Service and the medical staff at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital for their efforts. They also expressed gratitude to local organizations, including the Workington Speedway Supporters Club and Whitehaven Miners, for their support and tributes.

A man in his 60s was arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter at the scene and has since been released on bail. The investigation into Jay’s tragic death is ongoing.