Bentley Thomas Koch, a 4-year-old boy from Saylorsburg, PA, tragically died on June 18, 2017, after accidentally shooting himself in the face with an unsecured handgun. Bentley was the only son of Ryan P. Koch and Alexis Antonini. He was known for his love of matchbox cars, remote control cars, fidget spinners, four-wheelers, watching Paw Patrol, riding his bike and scooter, swimming, and playing baseball.
The incident occurred at the family home in Chestnuthill Township, Monroe County. Pennsylvania State Police were called to the scene and found Bentley suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to a hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival. The Monroe County Coroner's Office ruled his death as accidental.
Following the incident, Bentley's father, Ryan Patrick Koch, was charged with involuntary manslaughter and endangerment. The charges stemmed from allegations that Koch had left his .40-caliber handgun unsecured and accessible to Bentley. Koch provided conflicting accounts of the events leading up to the shooting, including claims of smoking marijuana before going to bed. The investigation revealed that Bentley had somehow accessed the firearm and accidentally shot himself.
The case drew attention to the issue of firearm safety and the importance of securing weapons, especially in homes with young children. The tragedy highlighted the potential dangers of unsecured firearms and the devastating consequences that can result from such negligence.
Bentley's death was a heartbreaking accident that led to significant legal and public safety discussions. His family and community continue to remember him fondly, and efforts to prevent similar incidents have been emphasized in the wake of this tragedy.
