'Always smiling' six-year-old boy who died after being shot with a pellet gun in 'tragic accident'

Police today named the six-year-old boy believed to have died after being shot with a pellet gun in a 'tragic accident'.

Stanley Metcalf, who was on his summer holiday from primary school, was found fatally injured at a home in the village of Sproatley, East Yorkshire yesterday afternoon.  

Stanley, who was a football mad Hull City fan known for 'always smiling;, was rushed to hospital but could not be saved.

Humberside Police launched an investigation after he died from apparent pellet gun shot injuries.

He was visiting a house belonging to relatives, which some neighbours claimed were an elderly couple who could be his grandparents. 

A teenager who knew Stanley has paid tribute to the little boy who he described as 'always happy'.

The teen, who wished to remain anonymous, spoke of how shocked the friends and family of Stanley have been since the tragic incident.

He described Stanley as 'really joyful' and 'full of life' from the times he had seen him.


Speaking near the property which has been cordoned off by police, he said: 'I live in Sproatley but I knew the kid because I knew his older sister.

'I found out the information about what has happened but I don't know the full details.

'He played for a local football team - U7s'. 

The teen paid tribute to Stanley, who was named by Humberside police at a press conference this afternoon.

He added: 'He was really joyful, always happy, always smiling, always dancing.

'He was a fully dedicated football player.

'I have known Stanley playing about with friends for the last two years.

'We would always have a laugh, he was a kid full of life and it's devastating this tragic accident has happened.' 

Police are investigating today.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Goulding, of Humberside Police, said: 'We're investigating the circumstances of the tragic death of a six-year-old boy.

'We were called at 4pm yesterday following reports the boy had been seriously injured at an address.

'He was taken to Hull Royal Infirmary but sadly passed away. 'Initial indication is this is a pellet gun injury but still we're investigating the circumstances and the investigation is at an early stage.

'Our thoughts are with his family, who are being supported by specialist officers and we request that they are given privacy at this very difficult time.' 





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