On August 4, 2024, 15-year-old Demarian Palmisano was shot at a home on Laverne Drive in Colerain Township, Ohio, and later died at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. The shooting occurred while Demarian and his 16-year-old best friend were handling a .22 long rifle. The friend, who was under the influence of alcohol, believed he needed to fire the gun to prime it and — not realizing it was already primed — pulled the trigger, striking Demarian in the back of the head.

The 16-year-old immediately called 911 and tried to keep Demarian alive; he has since been charged with reckless homicide and was arrested, later placed on house arrest after a court appearance. Demarian’s mother described him as kind, smart, and loving; he was due to start his sophomore year at Northwest High School. The school district offered counseling to students and staff, a GoFundMe was created to help the family, and the community has rallied in support.

If anyone knew Demarian or has information about the incident, please consider coming forward and sharing what you know.