Tavaris Rhodes was 14 when he died after being struck in the head by a firearm that discharged at a home on Northwest 172nd Terrace in Miami Gardens on February 27, 2016. He was airlifted to Ryder Trauma Center and later died of his injuries. The other 14-year-old boy present had been showing off a gun when it accidentally discharged.

That friend was arrested and charged with manslaughter and possession of a firearm by a minor. He was initially detained, then released to home detention with a GPS monitor while the State Attorney’s office reviewed whether he should be charged as an adult. The accused’s family said the shooting was a tragic accident, not gang-related, and described both boys as good friends.

Tavaris was remembered by family and friends as outgoing and playful. The case raised questions about firearm access for minors and left both families and the community grieving. If anyone knew Tavaris or has information about the shooting, please share what you know.