NATCHEZ — Natchez police officers responded to a call about a juvenile who was reportedly shot in the face around 5:30 p.m. Friday.

Officers arrived on scene at 109 North Temple Road and found a 17-year-old male sitting on the stoop of his kitchen door with a bloody towel held to his face, the Natchez Police Department reported Saturday.

After interviewing witnesses, two of whom were waiting for police with the victim, officers say they believe several juveniles were “playing around carelessly and recklessly with the guns,” the report said.

Officers believe the gun went off accidentally, striking the victim in the head.

An ambulance arrived and took the victim to the Heli-Pad behind Merit Health Natchez, where he was airlifted out of town for trauma treatment.

While interviewing the juveniles involved in the shooting, officers learned the alleged shooter left on foot.

Officers apprehended the subject, also 17, in the parking lot of the Red Carpet Inn and charged him with aggravated assault.

Two other juveniles were charged with hindering prosecution.

During the investigation, eight weapons were confiscated at the scene, including the gun with which the victim was allegedly shot.

Because all individuals involved in the investigation are juveniles, the Natchez Police Department would not release the names of the victim or suspect.

Natchez Police Department Captain Scott Frye said the incident is still under investigation.