UPDATE: Arrest made in shooting of Lexington boy

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ)- A man accused of shooting a little boy in Lexington is now in jail. Police say Alberto Pinedas Contreras was arrested Thursday in West Virginia.

Investigators say Contreras shot into an SUV in Lexington last Saturday, hitting a nine-year old boy. Police say the child is still in critical condition. Family friend Justin Hagan says the boy’s family is relieved to hear of the arrest.

Below is Hagan’s statement in its entirety.

News of the suspect, Mr. Contreras, has come with a welcoming relief – this allows the family to focus all attention and energy toward attending to Antonio. Still at this time Antonio is fighting, he has always been a strong and vibrant kid with each day passing Antonio continues to fight the great fight – for survival. Antonio is still listed in Critical Condition, at this time this is the only information that can be updated. If anything arises with his condition we will update then. We are still asking for prayers!
Antonio’s family wants to thank the Lexington Police Department and all the other agencies that have come together to capture Mr. Contreras. They would also like the community to know they appreciate all the support they have gotten thus far all the well wishes and prayers are not going unheard. The family would also like to acknowledge all the individuals whom reached out to Crime Stoppers and Police with tips that ultimately lead to Mr. Contreras capture.
It just goes to show that we as a community stand, and support one another. The family is asking that in light of the capture, on March 14th, the community conduct a “Blue Out” wearing as much blue as possible. Blue, which just happens to be Antonio’s favorite color, is a color of energy. The family would like for as much blue to be worn – this banding together will show Antonio that the community is with him and he can feel and use the energy.
Antonio’s family is still wanting to remain anonymous as possible for safety, and privacy. Once the family is ready to talk the parents will step forth, but please respect these wishes. At this moment the only thing on the parents mind is the health and well-being of their beloved son.

Justin Hagan