A 14-year-old boy was shot and killed by his 12-year-old cousin in Brooklyn on Sunday afternoon, according to prosecutors.
The incident occurred around 3 p.m. at the family’s home in East Flatbush. The victim, identified as Zavier Scott, was with his younger cousin when they found a gun inside the residence. According to authorities, the gun belonged to a relative who is a retired NYPD sergeant.
Investigators believe that the boys were playing with the gun when it discharged and struck Scott in the chest. He was pronounced dead at Kings County Hospital.
The 12-year-old suspect has been arrested and charged with manslaughter and criminal possession of a weapon. He is currently being held in custody at a juvenile detention center.
According to prosecutors, the gun used in the shooting was not properly secured and easily accessible to the children. They are urging gun owners to take caution and responsibility for their firearms, especially when young children are present.
This tragic incident has left the family devastated and shocked. A neighbor described Scott as a “good kid” who always looked out for his younger cousin. It is unclear how the boys were able to get access to the gun, but authorities are investigating further into the matter.
This heartbreaking story serves as a reminder of the importance of firearm safety and responsible ownership. According to data from Everytown Research, there have been at least 259 unintentional shootings by children in the United States in 2021 alone. This number is alarming and highlights the need for stricter gun control measures.
The Brooklyn community is mourning the loss of Scott and calling for justice to be served. The district attorney’s office has stated that they will continue to prosecute cases involving unsecured guns and hold individuals accountable for their actions.
In the wake of this tragedy, let us remember to keep our firearms secured and out of reach from children. It only takes one moment for a life to be lost, and we must do everything in our power to prevent these senseless deaths from happening again.
