On March 13, 2020, in Memphis, Tennessee, 9-year-old Xavier Jackson died after an accidental shooting at home. Xavier and his 13-year-old cousin were handling a gun when it discharged, striking Xavier in the face. Their mothers were reportedly out shopping at the time and the firearm was unsecured in the house.

The weapon belonged to the older boy’s father. The 13-year-old was charged with negligent homicide. The older boy’s parents, Latria Johnson and Lindsey Williams, were indicted on charges of criminally negligent homicide and reckless endangerment for allegedly leaving a loaded gun accessible. The father of the 13-year-old was also charged with resisting official detention after he reportedly tried to push past police officers to enter the home following the shooting.

Xavier’s death underscored the dangers of unsecured firearms and the legal consequences that followed for the family. If anyone knew Xavier or has information about what happened that day, please share what you know.