In a devastating incident in Scotts Valley, California, a 5-year-old boy has tragically lost his life after allegedly being stabbed by his twin brother. The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office responded to a distressing call of a stabbing at the 200 block of Tucker Road on Wednesday, just before 4:00 pm.

Upon arrival, deputies discovered that the young siblings had been engaged in a fight, leading to one of them grabbing a small kitchen knife and stabbing his twin during the confrontation. Despite receiving “life-saving efforts” from deputies and first responders, the 5-year-old was ultimately transported to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

The sheriff’s office conducted an investigation and determined that there was no indication of negligence or criminal activity by any other party involved in the tragic incident. In coordination with the District Attorney’s Office, and considering the circumstances revealed by investigators, the statement clarified that no charges would be filed against anyone. California law, according to the sheriff’s office, dictates that age, criminal intent, and knowledge of wrongfulness are crucial factors needed to charge a child with a crime.

California’s Penal Code Section 26 outlines cases in which individuals are “not capable of committing crimes,” with one provision stating that “children under the age of 14, in the absence of clear proof that at the time of committing the act charged against them, they knew its wrongfulness,” fall under this category. Additionally, under California Welfare and Institutions Code 602, “any minor who is under 12 years of age” when alleged to have committed offenses, including murder, is “within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.”

The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office expressed deep sympathy for the grieving family, emphasizing that they share in their grief. The statement also urged the public to respect the family’s privacy during this incredibly difficult time.