In Memphis, Tennessee, on a summer day in 2015, the life of 4-year-old Aabriel Cecil Lonnell Jones Jr., an African American male, was tragically cut short. On June 9th, the young boy was at home when he came across a. 40-caliber Smith and Wesson semi-automatic handgun. The firearm had been left on a nightstand by his father, Aabriel Jones Sr., instead of being secured in a gun safe.
While his father was outside working in the yard, Aabriel Jr. picked up the loaded weapon.
In a devastating turn of events, the gun discharged, and the child sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the head. His father, hearing the sound of the shot from inside the house, rushed in to find his son unresponsive on the bed.
Frantic, Aabriel Jones Sr. immediately called for emergency help. Despite the rapid response of emergency personnel, the injuries were too severe, and Aabriel Jr. was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident was investigated and ultimately ruled as an accidental shooting. Following a review of the circumstances, the Shelby County District Attorney's office announced that no charges would be filed against Aabriel Jones Sr., stating there was insufficient evidence to pursue allegations of child neglect.
