Man Charged with Manslaughter After Death of Eight Year Old Boy

A man has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter following the death of eight year old Jay Cartmell in Cumbria.

Jay died after suffering serious head injuries during an incident on September 28, 2024, on land near Warcop, close to the A66. The incident involved the discharge of a firearm, and emergency services were called to the scene.

Allan Thursby, 64, of Cleator Moor, was arrested on the day of the incident and has remained on police bail while investigations continued. He has now been formally charged and is due to appear at Carlisle Magistrates’ Court on March 26.

The case has drawn significant attention due to the tragic circumstances surrounding the death of the young boy. Jay was airlifted to hospital following the incident but later died from his injuries.

Authorities have confirmed that the charge follows a detailed investigation into the events leading up to the incident. The legal process will now move forward through the courts.

The incident has had a deep impact on the local community, with tributes previously paid to Jay, remembering him as a loving and energetic child.