A 12-YEAR-OLD boy was shot dead at a playground in Compton as cops launched a frantic manhunt for the killer who fled the scene.

On Friday, shocked locals recounted hearing approximately 15 gunshots before a dark red Chevrolet Camaro or Dodge Charger sped away rapidly from the scene.

The shooting took place shortly before 4 pm at Fig/Oleander Park, close to the crossing of Oris Street and Oleander Avenue, as reported by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

The young boy, believed by residents to be a local, was taken to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in critical condition following an emergency blood transfusion administered by first responders at the scene.

He was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

The youngster was shot in the stomach, Compton’s fire department said.

Authorities have not yet identified the victim or released a description of the shooter.

No arrests have been made, and no motive has been confirmed.

The park was immediately cordoned off as investigators scoured the scene.

It remains unclear when it will reopen.

Aerial footage showed patrol cars lining the street as officers combed the playground for clues.

Locals said the young victim was often seen playing in the park.

As the killer remains at large, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is urging anyone with information to come forward.

It comes after a high school football star was allegedly fatally shot by a homeowner while recording a TikTok prank video.

Michael Bosworth Jr., 18, and two pals were taking part in a “ding-dong ditch” challenge in an unfamiliar area before his school prom in Virginia.

Homeowner Tyler Chase Butler, 27, has been arrested on a murder charge, and is currently in custody, said the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office.

Butler allegedly shot at Bosworth and his two friends after they banged on his door while playing a video prank early Saturday.

He allegedly told detectives that he feared the three teenagers were trying to break into his house at 3:00 a.m., according to police documents.

Bosworth was taken to hospital, but he died from his injuries.

Meanwhile, a high school senior is said to be fighting for his life in hospital after falling from a car while playing a viral game.

Isaac Leal, 17, has been left in a critical condition – just weeks before he was set to graduate high school.

Leal was playing Senior Assassin on April 20 – a game that involves water guns, commonly played in the run-up to graduation, and is popular among his age group.

The teen jumped onto the back of a car before his target, who was inside the motor, drove at high speeds.