Fifteen-year-old Achilles Lopez of Pembroke Pines, Florida, died on June 11, 2022, after a firearm discharged at a family gathering in his home. Family members were present; witnesses said Achilles’ stepmother was handling the gun at the dinner table and that it unintentionally discharged, fatally wounding him. Witness Carlos Santos said the stepmother had been playing with the firearm and pointing it at people and the family dogs before the shot; he left the room moments before the gun went off.

Achilles was remembered by family and teammates as loving, compassionate and responsible. His sister Tyrani Lopez said he loved animals and was dedicated to his soccer team; Achilles played for Miramar United Elite FC and was known for his work ethic on the field. Pembroke Pines police described the shooting as stemming from negligence and mishandling of the firearm, and prosecutors were reported to be considering manslaughter charges pending the outcome of the investigation.

Did anyone in the community know Achilles or have information about the events that night?