Boy, 10, Accused of Shooting His 9-Year-Old Friend: 'Mama, He Shot Me on Purpose,' Child Alleged from His Hospital Bed By Nicholas Rice

A 9-year-old boy was allegedly shot by his friend, in what police reportedly believe was an intentional shooting.

The child, identified only as Tre’Michael by local outlet KALB, was spending time with a 10-year-old friend in Alexandria, La., on Dec. 6, when the incident occurred, the Alexandria Police Department (APD) said in a news release.

Tre’Michael was taken to the hospital, and his mother, Lakisha Ledguies, told KALB that her son later alleged from his hospital bed that the shooting was intentional.

“When the tube first came out of his mouth and he was able to talk, the first word was me, ‘Mama, Mama, he shot me on purpose,’ ” she said.

Ledguies also confirmed to the outlet that her son is 9 years old, despite police stating in their release that he is 8.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

The APD initially believed the shooting was accidental, but after further investigation, authorities said they determined it was intentional, KALB reported, citing police.

According to KALB and The Mirror, the 10-year-old was arrested on suspicion of aggravated second-degree battery and juvenile in possession of a handgun. His identity has not been made public because he is a juvenile.

It is not clear how he obtained the weapon used, or if anyone else has been, or will be, charged in connection with the shooting.

A GoFundMe to raise funds for Tre’Michael amid his recovery was later set up by a family member.

Describing the child’s recovery as “an unimaginable journey,” the loved one wrote of Tre’Michael, “The injuries he sustained are severe — he has lost his right kidney, half of his left lung, and his intestines were shattered by the bullet.”

“Our family is still in shock, and every day brings new challenges as he fights to recover from this traumatic event,” they continued.

The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now!

Related Stories

‘So-Called Friends’ Took Turns Shooting at Each Other While Wearing Helmet — Until Things Got Deadly

Utah Woman Pleads Guilty to Manslaughter After Fatally Shooting Friend Amid Botched Suicide Pact

The family member also said that Tre’Michael’s family is “deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and support from our community.”

“Thank you for standing with us during this incredibly difficult time,” they added. “Your kindness and generosity mean more than words can express, and we are overwhelmed with gratitude for every act of compassion shown to our family.”

The APD did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment and updated information on Sunday, Jan. 11. Contact information for Ledguies was not immediately available.