Murder charge for Port Richmond teen in brother’s death

A 16-year-old Philadelphia boy has been charged with murder in the shooting death of his younger brother, police said.

William Wright, 12, of Port Richmond, died of a gunshot wound to his face.

Police were called March 9 to the 3100 block of Richmond Street and found the boy in the bedroom of a second-floor apartment.

Investigators first believed that Wright had accidentally shot himself while playing with a loaded .22-caliber handgun.

An autopsy told a different story.

"The medical examiner did an examination and determined the injuries were inconsistent with a self-inflicted injury," said police spokesman Lt. Frank Vanore.

Investigators believe the boys started horsing around after finding the gun, one of three in the house that belonged to their late grandfather.

"We still believe it was accidental," Vanore said. "But if a gun is utilized and results in the death of another human being it is considered a homicide."

Wright's brother, who has not been named by police because of his age, posted bail Thursday and was released after being charged with murder, involuntary manslaughter and weapons counts, Vanore said.