Western Australian police have charged a 13-year-old boy following a drive-by shooting at a residential property in Gosnells, in Perth’s eastern suburbs. The incident is being investigated as a serious firearms-related offence after multiple shots were fired at a house while people were inside. The case was reported by ABC News on 19 October 2026.

Police said the shooting occurred at a home on Bert Street at approximately 12:40am on Saturday. Several shots were fired from a vehicle before the alleged offenders left the area. The incident caused damage to the property, including a bedroom window and an external wall.

Three people were inside the house when the shooting took place. Fortunately, none of them reported injuries, although the incident could have had far more serious consequences given that bullets struck areas of the occupied home.

Closed-circuit television footage captured audio believed to be associated with the shooting. According to the ABC report, the recording contained the sound of 27 shots being fired. Investigators are examining the available evidence as part of their efforts to establish what happened and whether other people were involved.

Police arrested the 13-year-old boy on Monday, 19 October. He was subsequently charged with eight offences. These include unlawful use of a firearm, endangering life, possession of stolen property and driving without authority. The charges relate to allegations made by police and have not been established as convictions.

The teenager appeared briefly before Perth Children's Court following his arrest. According to the report, he did not apply for bail during the appearance. Further court proceedings will determine how the case progresses.

The incident has raised concerns about gun-related crime in residential neighbourhoods and the involvement of young people in alleged serious offences. Drive-by shootings can place residents at considerable risk, particularly when firearms are discharged at homes where families may be sleeping.

Police investigations in cases like this typically involve collecting physical evidence, reviewing CCTV footage, interviewing witnesses and examining any links between suspects and the targeted property. Investigators will need to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including any possible motive. The available report does not confirm why the property was targeted.

The case also draws attention to the challenges faced by authorities when investigating alleged serious crime involving children. Proceedings involving young defendants are handled through the appropriate youth justice system, with the court considering the allegations and the relevant legal requirements.

Residents who may have information about the incident or relevant CCTV footage could assist investigators by contacting Western Australian police. Anyone who witnesses an immediate threat involving firearms should contact emergency services rather than approach those involved.

Although no one was physically injured in the Gosnells shooting, the damage to the property and the number of shots reportedly fired demonstrate the potential danger to residents and the surrounding community. Police inquiries and court proceedings are expected to clarify the evidence against the accused teenager.

The teenager remains accused of the offences unless and until they are proven in court.