Chance Gilbert, a 7-year-old boy from Cincinnati, OH, tragically lost his life on May 17, 2020. Chance was described as a vibrant, outgoing, and well-loved child who excelled in football and was known for his kind and thoughtful nature. He was a third-grade student at Riverview Elementary School and had a close-knit family, including four siblings.
The circumstances surrounding Chance's death were initially unclear, and Cincinnati police launched an investigation.
It was later revealed that Chance was accidentally shot by a 9-year-old boy while playing with a firearm inside a home in the Hawaiian Terrace apartment complex. The gun, which was believed to have been left out by an adult, was not known to be loaded by the child who fired it.
Hamilton County Prosecutor Joe Deters stated that the 9-year-old boy would not face charges, as he did not know the gun was loaded and showed courage by telling the truth about the incident. However, Deters emphasized that the investigation was ongoing, and there were adults involved who knew what happened and may have tried to cover it up. The police chief also mentioned that parts of the investigation remained unresolved.
The tragic accident led to a community outpouring of grief and support for Chance's family. The Hamilton school district expressed their condolences and extended their support to the family during this difficult time. The case highlighted the importance of gun safety and the devastating consequences that can result from negligence.
Despite the heartbreak, Chance's memory lives on through the love and support of his family, friends, and community. His untimely death serves as a reminder of the preciousness of life and the need for vigilance in ensuring the safety of children.
