BROOKLYN, NY – A 12-year-old boy has been charged with manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, and criminal possession of a weapon following an incident that led to the death of his 14-year-old cousin. The tragic event occurred in a housing project in Brownsville, Brooklyn, NY.
On the morning of the incident, the two cousins were reportedly playing together while their grandfather slept in the next room, say authorities. The 14-year-old, Jasai Guy, was shot in the chest with a shotgun which investigators believe belonged to his father, an FDNY firefighter who was out of town at the time.
On arrival at the scene, the younger boy told the officers, “I shot my cousin by accident. I don’t want him to die.” Despite being rushed to the Brookdale University Hospital and Medical Center, Jasai did not survive the injuries. Initial investigations suggest the shooting was accidental.
The key question that remains unanswered is how did the boys gain access to the weapon and whether it was legally obtained.
Jasai was remembered fondly by neighbors as a smart, “good kid” who enjoyed playing basketball and stayed clear of trouble. His untimely death has brought a great deal of shock and sorrow to his community.