A 16-year-old boy playing with a rifle fatally shot his 15-year-old friend at the younger boy's home in Chisago County, authorities said Friday.

The 15-year-old, William R. Showers, was shot once in the neck about 9:20 p.m., Thursday at the home north of Lindstrom in the 13500 block of 347th Street, according to the Sheriff's Office.

The 16-year-old called 911 after shooting his friend with a .22-caliber rifle, the Sheriff's Office said.

Authorities questioned the older boy and released him to his parents as their investigation continues.

"It was basically two kids playing" while alone at the home, said Sheriff Rick Duncan.

PAUL WALSH