Girl, 4, fighting for life after being shot in the head with an arrow by her teen archer BROTHER in horror accident
Abigail Jones recovering in hospital after accident
A KEEN teenage archer is believed to have accidentally shot his four-year-old sister in the head with an arrow, leaving her fighting for her life.
Abigail Jones is recovering in hospital after the accident in which 18-year-old brother Cory is believed to have inadvertently struck her with an arrow at their home in Illingworth, Halifax.
The youngster required surgery after being rushed to hospital by air ambulance on Saturday, and her parents have kept a bedside vigil since.
Her elder brother is said to be "beside himself".
A neighbour, who did not wish to be named, said: "Cory is a very good archery, he loves the sport and he knows what he’s doing."
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The neighbour continued: “He would not do anything silly, so I can’t understand how this accident has happened.
“We are all just praying that Abigail pulls through.”
West Yorkshire Police have confirmed that Abigail's injuries are believed to be the result of an accident and said an 18-year-old is assisting with enquiries.
Cory, who refers to himself on Facebook as Cory 'Arrow' Jones, is a member of the Phoenix Bowmen archery club.
Club secretary Tim Mason said that Cory owns his own equipment, and uses a high powered recurve bow.
“Cory has been a member of Phoenix Bowmen for about a year and he is developing into a good young archer,” said Mr Mason.
“He comes down with his parents, but I have not seen him for a couple of weeks.
“This is shocking news.”
A family friend told thethe youngster's condition has improved and she is no longer attached to a life support machine.
Detective Inspector Gary Stephenson, of Calderdale District CID, said: "Enquiries are ongoing to determine precisely how this girl has come to be injured.
"Our investigations suggest she was not intentionally injured and an 18-year-old male is assisting us with our enquiries.
"Specially trained officers are working to support her family as our investigations continue."
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