Marques Green, a three-year-old boy from Hamilton, Ohio, tragically died on June 11, 2015, after accidentally shooting himself with his mother's handgun. Marques, who was born on February 15, 2012, found the gun in his mother's purse and fired it into his own chest. His mother, Elizabeth Green, had just returned home and left her purse, which contained the handgun, within reach of Marques.
In a frantic 911 call, Elizabeth Green told the dispatcher that her son had shot himself and she was unable to revive him.
The Butler County prosecutor's office conducted an investigation into the incident to determine if any criminal charges should be filed against Elizabeth Green. The investigation revealed that Elizabeth Green had a permit to carry a concealed weapon and had received firearm training. However, the grand jury ultimately decided not to indict her, citing the immense emotional loss she had already suffered and the accidental nature of the incident. The prosecutor stated that the mother's inattention under the circumstances was not sufficient grounds for criminal charges.
The tragic death of Marques Green brought attention to the issue of gun safety and the importance of securely storing firearms, especially in homes with young children. The incident also occurred in the wake of another accidental shooting death in Hamilton, which further heightened community concerns about children's access to guns.
Despite the heart-wrenching circumstances, no legal actions were taken against Elizabeth Green, and the case was closed with the understanding that the death was accidental. The community and Marques' family continue to mourn the loss of the young boy, whose life was cut short by a tragic accident.
