5-year-old boy will not face charges after stabbing his twin brother with a kitchen knife during an argument

A FIVE-YEAR-OLD boy who stabbed his twin brother to death with a small kitchen knife will not face charges, authorities said.

The Santa Cruz, California, child was fighting with his brother in their home when the incident occurred.

1

During the fight on November 15, the unnamed boy grabbed “a small kitchen knife” and stabbed his brother Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office.

Around 4 p.m., officers were dispatched to the family’s home for a report of a stabbing involving a young victim.

Law enforcement noted in a statement that the brothers “argued as siblings sometimes do,” suggesting there was no malicious intent.

The victim was taken to hospital but later died from his injuries.

“Despite the life-saving efforts of our deputies, EMS personnel and hospital staff, the 5-year-old died at the hospital,” the sheriff’s office said.

According to authorities, the brother is not accused of any crime.

“Given all the circumstances identified by our investigators,” no charges will be filed in connection with the death, police said.

The sheriff’s office noted that this decision was made in collaboration with the district attorney’s office.

“California law requires that age, criminal intent and knowledge of wrongdoing are factors required to charge a child with a crime (PC 26 and W&I 602),” the sheriff’s office said.

“Based on the current investigation, there is no evidence of negligence or criminal activity by any other party.”

The department added that “the family of these two young children is heartbroken and shares their grief.”

Community members expressed concern and concern for the family on social media.

“My heart breaks for the family! Very devastating and I can’t imagine what the poor parents are going through,” one person wrote.

“Prayers to everyone who had to witness this.”

“We invite the entire family and all medical/public service providers involved in our prayers,” said another.

“I hope that someone was able to provide them with supportive resources to help them cope with this tragedy.”

Others expressed concern about “lifelong heartache” over the incident.