Ferndale High School senior on life support following accidental shooting in Bellingham

Alejandro Pallares, an 18-year-old Ferndale High School senior, remains in critical condition after an accidental shooting in Bellingham, Washington. The incident occurred on May 18 when the suspect, also 18, called 911 to report the shooting inside an apartment. Upon arrival, police found Pallares unconscious and rushed him to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center. The suspect admitted that the gun belonged to Pallares and that he did not know it was loaded.

According to witnesses, the two young men were playing with a laser device on the firearm when it accidentally discharged. The suspect, who has a prior felony conviction, cannot legally possess a firearm in Washington. Pallares is on life support with no chance of recovery, and his mother stated that they are heartbroken over the tragedy. The family has set up a GoFundMe to help with expenses during this difficult time.