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The fight happened while the two boys were playing with the Nerf gun at a home in Randall Road in Ridgebury Township, Bradford County on Saturday around 10:30 p.m., according to the release.
A "tug-a-war" over a toy gun ensued and the younger boy stabbed the older one in the chest with a knife, the release states.
How the child got the knife is not immediately clear.
The 11-year-old boy was rushed to Robert Packer Hospital, where he later died despite life saving efforts, according to police.
The boy's death was ruled a homicide following an autopsy on Monday, according to a report by WETM citing the Bradford County coroner's office.
Details about any charges against the 9-year-old have not been released.
Pennsylvania state police in Bradford County had not returned Daily Voice's requests for information placed on Tuesday at the time of publication.
The boys' elementary school offered counseling services in light of the "tremendous sadness" of the death, according to a statement released on the school's Facebook page.
"If students or staff need any assistance dealing with this news, please do not hesitate to speak with a counselor or a trusted adult," the school said. "If you or your child needs help after the school day or on weekends, please reach out to your building administrator, and they can provide you with additional resources."
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