Mayor Jones, who only took office five days ago, said police were still looking into the specifics of the shooting, but he believed the term “altercation” was appropriate and would use it.

Regarding how a six-year-old could handle a firearm or have access to one, he remarked, “We don’t have all the answers.”

“This is a horrible day in our history, and I believe it raises a serious concern for the nation.”

Additionally, the police have neglected to say how they have interacted with the student’s parents. Virginia law prohibits having children as young as six prosecuted as adults.

Additionally, if found guilty, the youngster would be too young to be placed in the Department of Juvenile Justice’s custody.

However, a judge can terminate the boy’s parental custody and place him under state supervision.

On Saturday, Chief Drew stated that to provide this young man with the finest care possible, police had “been in contact with our commonwealth’s attorney” (the local prosecutor).

George Parker, the school district’s superintendent, stated on Saturday that the incident demonstrated the necessity for “educating our youngsters and ensuring their safety.”

To ensure that youth do not have access to guns, he added, “We need the community’s help, ongoing support.”

Newport News, a metropolis of roughly 180,000 inhabitants, is located about 70 miles (112 km) south of Richmond, the state capital.