Jacob Kohler, a 19-year-old male from Jacksonville, North Carolina, tragically lost his life on November 14, 2015. Jacob was a recent graduate of White Oak High School and a member of Grants Creek Missionary Baptist Church. He was remembered as a loving son, big brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend. His family and friends cherished his memory and held a celebration of his life on November 20, 2015.
The circumstances surrounding Jacob's death were heartbreaking.
On the evening of November 14, 2015, Jacob was accidentally shot by his friend, Victor Santana, a 20-year-old male. The incident occurred at an apartment in Jacksonville, where Santana was handling one of Jacob's firearms. Santana, who believed the gun was unloaded, accidentally discharged the weapon, striking Jacob in the stomach. Jacob was immediately taken to Onslow Memorial Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The case was investigated by the Jacksonville Police Department, and Santana was charged with involuntary manslaughter. In court, Santana pleaded guilty to the charge and was sentenced to 150 days in prison, followed by probation. As part of his probation, Santana was required to give ten speeches to high school students about the dangers of handling firearms without proper training. Additionally, he was ordered to pay restitution for Jacob's funeral expenses and complete 120 hours of community service.
Jacob's family, while devastated by the loss, expressed forgiveness towards Santana. Jacob's father, Kevin Kohler, addressed the court, asking for leniency in Santana's sentencing. He emphasized the importance of firearm safety and the senseless nature of the tragedy. The Kohler family continues to cope with the loss of their beloved son, who had aspirations of joining law enforcement and a passion for serving others.
